Ear wax removal health hazards
For healthier alternatives to the quick cotton-swab fix, the U.S. National Library of Medicine and
National Institutes of Health recommend using mineral oil, baby oil, glycerin, or commercial drops to soften wax in the ear, or detergent drops such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Another method is called irrigation. Some people recommend olive oil, but using water can be just as effective. Here's how:
With the head upright, straighten the ear canal by holding the external ear and gently pulling upward. Use a syringe to gently direct a small stream of water against the ear canal wall next to the wax plug. Tip the head to allow the water to drain. Irrigation may need to be repeated several times.
If you want a quick fix, wrap your finger in a tissue and gently clean. If deeper cleaning is needed, head to a Ear Nose and Throat doctor, who can do a "curette" cleaning procedure. Whatever you do, don't use "candle waxing" at-home products -- research has found this is dangerous and ineffective!What is your ear-cleaning method?







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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
1-08-2008 @ 12:30PM
Chris said...
Mary, if the right ear candles are used, and used correctly, it is very effective and safe.
I don't know WHO did these trials, but they must have used a bad product. In the study, they say the ear candles actually deposited candle wax into their ears. Well, I don't know about you, but I've never used an ear candle that even HAS wax!! It's usually just rolled up canvas paper. It's called a "candle" because it looks like a candle, not because it actually IS a candle.
I would advise.
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