We all know the feeling of a blocked ear. It can be annoying, painful, and even difficult to hear. But what causes this blockage, and how can you clean it out? Wax buildup is one of the most common causes of a blocked ear. When the wax gets too hard or too close to the eardrum, it can cause a blockage. Thankfully, there are a few easy ways to clean your ears and eliminate that pesky blockage.
What Causes A Blocked Ear?
The major cause of a blocked ear is wax buildup. Wax is produced by the body to protect the ear from dust and foreign particles. However, sometimes too much wax can accumulate, causing a blockage.Other causes of a blocked ear include sinus infections, allergies, colds, and Eustachian tube dysfunction. The Eustachian tube is a small passageway connecting the middle ear to the back of the nose. If it becomes blocked, fluid can build up in the middle ear and cause a blockage.Treatment for a blocked ear depends on the underlying cause. If the wax is the problem, your doctor may recommend using over-the-counter ear drops or gentle flushing with warm water. You may need medication or other treatments for other causes, like an infection or allergies.
How To Clean Your Ear Safely?
If you think you have a buildup of ear wax, it is important to clean your ear safely to avoid damaging it. To clean your ear safely, you will need the following:
- A cotton swab
- Warm water
- A clean towel
Wet the cotton swab with warm water. Then, gently insert the cotton swab into your ear canal and twist it around to loosen the wax. Be careful not to insert the cotton swab too far into your ear canal. Next, use a towel to dry your ear. Finally, repeat this process on the other ear.
When To See A Doctor?
If you have a blocked ear, you should see a doctor. A blocked ear can be caused by several things, including an infection, wax buildup, or something more serious. A doctor determines your blocked ear's cause and recommends the best treatment.
If you want to learn more about cleaning a blocked ear, Attune is the best ear treatment in Australia. Our ENT specialists are experienced in treating all types of ear conditions, including blockages.
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