Everyone produces some earwax. Overproduction of earwax (cerumen) causing blockage of the external ear. Earwax is part of the body's natural defenses. It protects the ear canal by trapping dirt and slowing the growth of bacteria.

Self-care 

If the eardrum does not contain a tube or have a hole in it, these simple self-care measures may help you remove excess earwax that is blocking the ear canal:

• Use an eyedropper to apply a few drops of baby oil, mineral oil, glycerin or hydrogen peroxide in the ear canal twice a day for several days. This will soften the wax.

• After a day or two when the wax is softened, use a 3-ounce rubber-bulb syringe to gently squirt warm water into the ear canal. Tilt the head and pull the outer ear up and back to straighten the ear canal. When finished irrigating, tip the head to the side to let the water drain out.

• When finished, dry the outer ear with a towel or a hand-held hair dryer. Dry the inner ear by applying one full eyedropper of rubbing alcohol, then tipping the head to the side to drain the alcohol.

You may need to repeat this wax-softening and irrigation procedure several times before the excess earwax falls out. However, the softening agents may only loosen the outer layers of the wax. If the symptoms don't improve after several treatments, see the doctor.

Earwax removal kits available in stores also can be effective at removing wax buildup. If you're unsure which one is right for you, ask the doctor for advice on how to properly use other earwax-removal methods.

Never attempt to dig out excessive or hardened earwax with items such as a paper clip, a cotton swab or a hairpin. You may push the wax further into the ear and do serious damage to the lining of the ear canal and even to the eardrum.

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