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Is it safe to use cotton swabs when cleaning earwax out of my child’s ears?
July 3, 2010
Our ears are designed to be self-cleaning. Earwax is a protective substance formed in the outer ear canal. The earwax can be light to dark brown or orange in colour. Earwax gradually moves out of the ear on its own without any difficulties. Nothing should be put into the ear to remove ear wax. Cotton swabs, bobby pins, and fingers can actually make matters worse by pushing earwax deeper into the ear canal and therefore creating a blockage or damaging the eardrum. Impacted ear wax can lead to hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and vertigo (dizziness).
Earwax serves several important functions, it:
- protects the eardrum by creating a waterproof lining of the ear canal,
- keeps the ear dry and prevents germs from creating an infection, and
- traps dirt, dust, and other particles from injuring or irritating the eardrum.
Most earwax concerns can be resolved with home treatment. Daily cleansing of the outer part of the ear canal with soap and water and a finger in a wet washcloth are usually sufficient. Earwax can be softened with a few drops of mineral oil or warm water hydrogen peroxide solution. Keep your ears dry. Do not try to remove earwax; if you have ear pain or discharge that looks different than earwax, you should consult your health care provider. If you have ear tubes or have had ear surgery, follow your health care provider’s instructions for caring for your ears.
For more information about removing earwax or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).
