Earwax is a substance naturally found in the outer ear canal, which is between the middle ear and the fleshy outer part of the ear. It is medically known as cerumen, and it’s a waterproof lining of the ear canal that protects the eardrum from infection-causing germs. It also traps dust, dirt and harmful particles that could irritate the eardrum. As the outer ear canal makes earwax all the time, it usually falls out independently during regular bathing.

Forcibly removing earwax using cotton swabs from a child’s ears risks damage or infection to the eardrum or ear canal. Though some children produce more earwax than their peers, it is usually not a cause for concern. However, cotton swabs, fingers or other objects can further push back the earwax, which could build up and block the ear canal. Called ‘impaction’, this causes discomfort, pain and difficulty in hearing. In such cases, the doctor removes the earwax. Therefore, children and parents shouldn’t remove earwax at home to prevent ear canal and eardrum damage.

If the child complains of ear discomfort, check their ears for any foreign object. If you see earwax in the ear, simply wipe the outside with a damp washcloth. Never use fingers, cotton swabs or other things to poke inside the ear. Sharp objects could puncture and damage the eardrum and ear canal or even further push back the wax. In such a case, consult the doctor for a hearing test for kids.

Consult the doctor further if the child complains of hearing problems, itchiness, discomfort, earache or a blocked sensation. The doctor removes earwax in their clinic or operating room, where the child would be kept under general anaesthesia. They remove the earwax by pulling it out, scooping it out or suctioning it out with instruments. Alternatively, they put ear drops into the ear canal to soften and break down the wax and flush it out with warm water. The entire process takes a few minutes, and the doctor prescribes a hearing test for kids and antibiotic eardrops to counter infection.

Though ear candling seems to be a popular home remedy for earwax removal, it is dangerous and ineffective. If performed incorrectly, it punches a hole in the eardrum, burns the ear canal and permanently damages the child’s hearing. If you’re looking for guidance on earwax removal, contact us at Eastern Audiology.