A buildup of earwax in the external ear canal that may cause itching, pain, and temporary hearing loss.

Earwax production is a normal, healthy process of the gland of the ear. Earwax is produced to protect the ear from infection and trauma. The wax is continuously being produced and removed from the ear on its own mechanism. However, at times, an overproduction of wax may build up and remain in the external ear canal. With age, the normal mechanisms of the ear for removing earwax are decreased. This is called cerumen impaction. Use of cotton swabs to remove earwax can push wax further into the ear and cause problems deeper into the ear canal.

Do not use cotton swabs, paper clips, or other objects to clean your ears. These can damage the ear canal and lead to an external ear infection.

1. Use Debrox, mineral oil, or olive oil, two to three drops per day, gently placed into the external ear canal, for 1 week. These oils will soften up the wax for easier removal.
2. Clean ears with a wet washcloth. The external ear that is visible to the eye is the only part of the ear that should be cleaned with a wet washcloth.
3. Return to health care provider in 1 week for wax removal.
4. Do not try to remove the earwax on your own because of the chance of damaging your eardrum or creating an environment for bacteria to grow. Never stick any kind of tool into your ear. This will usually push the wax farther into your ear canal, making removal more difficult for your healthcare provider.

Activity: As tolerated.

Diet: As tolerated.

Medications:

You Have Been Prescribed: ______________________________________________________________

You Need to Take: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

You Need to Notify the Office If:

1. You are unable to hear.
2. You have colored drainage or fluid draining from your ears.
3. You run a fever.
4. You have dizziness.
5. Other: ___________________________________

Phone: ____________________________________