EARWAX

What is it?

Earwax is a collection of fats and oils released naturally by glands in the ear to protect the area between the eardrum and the outside of the ear. The wax traps particles which enter the ear.

Who gets it?

People vary a lot in how much wax they make. Problems occur when too much is produced and it blocks the ear canal. Working in a dusty environment can increase the likelihood of a blockage as the dust mixes in with the wax to produce a 'plug'. You may experience discomfort, pain or even temporary deafness after swimming or showering -this is caused by the wax absorbing water and swelling up.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of blockage include hearing loss, pain, a ringing sound or a feeling that something is 'plugging' the ear.

What is the treatment?

Your GP or practice nurse should be able to remove excess wax with an ear wash, but the wax has to be softened first. Two drops of warm olive oil twice daily is ideal for this. Follow these steps:

• Lie down with the affected ear pointed towards the ceiling;
• Put two drops of warm olive oil into the ear, plug it gently with cotton wool and wait five minutes to let the oil work its way into the wax;
• Do not try to remove earwax with a stick or cotton swab. This can damage the eardrum or cause an infection in the ear canal;
• After three to four days of using the ear drops, make an appointment with your practice nurse to have your ears washed out.

Other ear drops, which can soften ear wax or dissolve it away chemically, are available from your local chemist. Ask the pharmacist for advice about their use.

To help prevent earwax problems:

• Wear earplugs if you work in a dusty environment to help keep your ear canals clean;
• Use two drops of olive oil as above once or twice a week only to keep wax at bay;
• Do not rub your ears dry. Instead, gently use a hair dryer (on low heat) after showering or swimming.

When should I go to my GP?

If you have a hole in your eardrum ('perforation') you should see your doctor before you start using any ear drops. You should also see your GP if you continue to have ear pain or develop a high temperature after the wax has been removed see your GP.