Kamalesh works as a senior executive in a finance company in Pune. Over the past few days, he has been experiencing itchiness and earache in both ears. He tried some over-the-counter ear drops, but they didn’t work. Suddenly he experienced severe earache, so his colleague suggested consulting an ENT specialist who will prescribe a proper line of treatment for his condition. Kamalesh consulted one of the best ENTs in Pune who gave him a hydrogen peroxide in ear drop to remove earwax. After using hydrogen peroxide in ear, Kamalesh has started feeling much better and his ear pain has gone completely.
Earwax is a waxy material that is secreted from the ear canal. This natural cleanser comes up with antifungal and antibacterial properties and safeguards your ears. If too much earwax is deposited, then it may cause some problems. An accumulation of earwax may clog the canal and cause some problems including,
- Infections
- Earaches
- Ear discharge
- Hearing problems
- Ringing in the ear, or tinnitus
- Inside ear itching
Ear Drops are the most effective solutions to deal with earwax and these products contain hydrogen peroxide.
Hydrogen Peroxide Earwax Removal: Effective or Not?
Earwax is medically termed as cerumen, and hydrogen peroxide is called a cerumenolytic. This means it can soften, break down, and liquefy earwax.
Ear drops that are available in the market contain various forms of hydrogen peroxide. Popular earwax removal is carbamide hydroxide which causes bubbles once you add it to earwax. This softens and removes the buildup.
A study was published in 2013 and according to it, hydrogen peroxide may not be necessary. The researchers revealed that distilled water may also soften earwax efficiently.
How do you use Hydrogen Peroxide to Remove Earwax?
Hydrogen peroxide is an effective cerumenolytic agent that can melt and break down earwax. Thus, it is very useful in removing earwax. While using this ear wax removal hydrogen peroxide, you must consider certain things.
- Purchase an ear drop that contains three percent hydrogen peroxide solution
- A medicine dropper
- A soft cloth or a towel
How to Use Hydrogen Peroxide in the Ear
- By using the dropper, take a small amount of three percent hydrogen peroxide
- Tilt your head to one side and add two to three drops with the help of the dropper. You may ask someone to do this job on your behalf
- Don’t raise your head; rather, try to hold it in a tilted position so that the drop can enter the right position inside your ear.
- Stay in this position for four to five minutes.
- You may observe some fizzing in the affected ear as the wax gets diluted in the peroxide solution
- By using a towel or soft cloth, drain out the solution and excess earwax
- Now, clear your ear with a soft cotton towel. Dry the outer ear with a clean cloth or towel.
Side Effects of Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide may have no adverse side effects. But it may create problems if a person is suffering from ear damage or an ear infection.
To avert complications, you may follow the below-mentioned tips.
- Before using a peroxide ear drop, consult a doctor
- Follow the directions on the packaging and then, use it
- If your ears are already injured, don’t use these ear drops as this may lead to ear pain or other complications
- Never insert foreign particles into the ear to remove wax. Sometimes, cotton buds may push wax towards the eardrum.
- If you are facing discomfort, blocked ears, or earache, or the drops are not working, consult a doctor for a proper line of treatment
Some Other Ways to Remove Earwax
1. Popping the Ears (Valsalva Maneuver)
To perform the Valsalva maneuver, you need to close your nose with your fingers and then blow out with closed lips and puffed cheeks. This may create an instant “popping” sensation and you will get rid of clogged ears.
2. Ear Irrigation
You can purchase an over-the-counter irrigation kit and follow the instructions completely. But if you have ear surgery or an ear infection, then you should stay away from ear irrigation. Use the kit twice or thrice daily or as per your doctor’s instructions.
3. Warm Compression
Steam or warm compress is beneficial to unblock the ears. Place a warm compress across your affected ear so that the steam can get inside easily. A hot shower will also be helpful in this context.
4. Oil Drops
Various types of oils like olive, baby, or mineral oil are effective for clogged ears. Add two to three drops of oil to the affected ear by tilting your head for 15 to 20 seconds. Repeat the process three to four times to remove the accumulated wax. Don’t use oil drops frequently as they may lead to fungal infections.
5. Over-the-Counter Ear Decongestants
These will give you relief from clogged ears, especially if you have nasal or sinus inflammation. Before using these drops, read all the instructions carefully.
Earwax is good as it protects your ears from infections and prevents water from entering the inner ear surfaces. This wax is produced naturally by your ears.
The Bottom Line
Sometimes, the wax may produce above the normal levels. Thus, people need to use ear drops to remove excess earwax. But if you have an exorbitant amount of earwax along with pain, discomfort, ear infections or hearing loss, then you must visit a doctor to identify the condition. The doctor will prescribe you the best treatment so that you can get relief from excess earwax and other symptoms.
Cure Inner Ear Infections FAQs
Can I put peroxide inside my ear for treating an infection?
Hydrogen peroxide is commonly found in ear drops that are used to treat ear infections and remove earwax. It is generally safe to use when used as directed by your healthcare provider. However, it is important to follow the prescribed concentration and frequency of use. Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidizing agent, and using it in high concentrations can potentially lead to skin irritation and rashes, particularly in sensitive individuals.
Is it safe to put hydrogen peroxide inside the ear for an earache?
ydrogen peroxide is utilised in ear drops to help remove ear wax and has some germ-killing properties. However, ear infections typically occur in the eustachian tubes, which are located internally or in the space behind the eardrum. This means that hydrogen peroxide ear drops may not effectively reach the infected area. If you suspect you have an ear infection, it is strongly advised to consult a healthcare professional who can determine whether the infection is caused by a virus or bacteria and recommend appropriate treatment. It is not recommended to use hydrogen peroxide in the ear for treating infections.
How to use hydrogen peroxide for earwax removal?
To effectively remove earwax using hydrogen peroxide, follow these steps:
• Lie down on your side, with the ear you want to clean facing upwards. This position helps the hydrogen peroxide reach the ear canal easily.
• Gently squeeze a few drops of the hydrogen peroxide solution into your ear. It's important to use an ear drop specifically formulated for earwax removal, which usually contains around 3% to 4% hydrogen peroxide.
• Stay still and allow the drops to remain in your ear for approximately 5 to 6 minutes. This gives the hydrogen peroxide enough time to soften and loosen the earwax.
• After the designated time, tilt your head to the side and use a tissue to gently wipe away any excess drops and softened earwax that may have drained out.
How to clean ears with hydrogen peroxide?
To clean your ears effectively, you only need about 4 to 6 drops of hydrogen peroxide solution. After placing the solution in your ear, let it settle inside for a few minutes. Do not use too much of the hydrogen peroxide solution, as excessive quantities can be harmful. To ensure safe cleaning, use a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide. Using a higher concentration can lead to skin irritation and discomfort. So, remember to use the solution in the recommended amount to keep your ears clean and safe.
How often can I use peroxide for ear wax removal?
If you have a wax blockage in your ears, you can try using hydrogen peroxide two to three times a day for two weeks before your scheduled appointment. This will help loosen up the wax and may even remove it completely, eliminating the need for further cleaning. By using hydrogen peroxide regularly in this way, you can help resolve the issue of ear wax blockage and potentially avoid the need for additional cleaning procedures.
Does hydrogen peroxide kill ear infections?
Ear infections typically happen deep inside the ear, behind the eardrum or in the eustachian tubes. Since these infections are internal, hydrogen peroxide ear drops cannot reach the infected area effectively. The ear drops primarily work on the outer part of the ear and may not provide direct relief for internal ear infections.
Will hydrogen peroxide help with inner ear infections?
Ear infections occur deep inside the ear, making it difficult for hydrogen peroxide to reach the affected area. Therefore, hydrogen peroxide is not effective in treating inner ear infections.
