Earwax : Prevention and Treatment : Your online pharmacy selection

Earwax plugs are a common but manageable condition, requiring a cautious approach and, often, professional intervention for safe and effective treatment. Good ear hygiene and appropriate preventive practices are essential to avoid the formation of plugs and maintain optimal hearing health.

What is earwax?

Earwax plays a crucial role in the health of our ears. Produced by glands in the ear canal, it protects the ear by trapping dust, bacteria and other foreign particles, preventing them from penetrating deep into the ear. However, when cerumen accumulates in excess, it can harden and form an earwax plug, which can cause a variety of discomforts and hearing problems.

How to recognize earwax build-up?

Symptoms of earwax build-up include a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, reduced hearing, tinnitus (ringing or whistling), itching and even pain. It's important to watch out for these signs, as an untreated plug can lead to complications such as ear infection.

What are the main causes of earwax plug formation?

The formation of a plug can be due to a number of factors, including excessive earwax production, a narrow or tortuous anatomy of the ear canal, the regular use of hearing devices (e.g., hearing aids, hearing aids, etc.), or a combination of these factors.or excessive ear hair removal, which encourages dust and debris to accumulate.

How to prevent earwax build-up?

To prevent the formation of plugs, we recommend avoiding the use of cotton buds to clean the inside of the ears, as this can push earwax deeper into the ear. Instead, opt for gentle methods, such as cleaning the ear entrance with a damp cloth. What's more, keeping your body properly hydrated helps maintain a good earwax consistency, facilitating its natural expulsion.

What are the treatment options for earwax plugs?

Treatment for earwax plugs depends on their size and hardness. Options include oil- or peroxide-based ear drops to soften the plug, ear irrigation with a saline solution, or suctioning or curettage by a healthcare professional. It is crucial to consult a specialist to avoid any risk of hearing damage during treatment.

Can I remove an earwax plug myself?

We strongly advise against trying to remove earwax plugs yourself, especially using sharp or hard objects, as this can cause serious injury. For light plugs, gentle methods such as specific ear drops can be tried at home, but always with caution and according to the recommendations of a health professional.

Does earwax change with age?

Yes, the composition and consistency of earwax can vary with age. In children, earwax is generally more liquid, making it easier to expel naturally. As we age, earwax tends to become drier and harder, which can increase the risk of blockage, especially in the elderly. Careful attention to ear hygiene and regular consultations with a healthcare professional can help prevent complications associated with these changes.

Can earwax plugs affect balance?

Although it's less well known, a large cerumen impaction can sometimes affect balance. The ear canal plays a role in our vestibular system, which helps regulate balance. A blockage can therefore exert pressure on the ear canal, slightly disturbing balance. However, this effect is generally minor and resolves itself with treatment of the plug.

Is seawater effective in preventing earwax plugs?

Thanks to its salt content, seawater can help soften earwax. Some may find that swimming in the sea or applying homemade salt solutions helps prevent earwax build-up. However, it's important to use these methods sparingly and consult a professional if you're prone to ear problems, as introducing water into the ear canal can sometimes increase the risk of infection.

When should you consult a doctor about earwax?

We recommend that you consult a healthcare professional if you experience hearing loss, pain or persistent itching, or if you suspect the presence of a cerumen impaction. It's especially important to consult a health care professional if you've had ear infections in the past, if you have a history of recurrent earwax plugs, or if you experience pain, unusual discharge or symptoms of infection.