Blockage of the outer ear canal due to an accumulation of ear wax is one of the most typical causes of short-term hearing loss. If you’re relatively certain that ear wax is the cause of your temporary hearing loss, you most likely want to clean your ears. Even so, you must clean them safely and correctly, otherwise you may cause permanent damage to your ears.
Therefore, in offering this write-up of suggestions, it’s wise to begin with a reminder of things not to do. Never insert any foreign objects into your ear. Regardless of whether it’s a cotton swap, Q-tip or other tool, you’re more likely to make the problem worse by further compressing the ear wax if you start poking around in your ear. Under no circumstances, use any device that injects water under pressure. The stream of pressurized water can damage your ear drum. Finally, if you know that you have a punctured eardrum, leave cleaning your ears to a hearing specialist. The same is true if you think you have an ear infection. Signs and symptoms of ear infections include ear pain, vomiting or diarrhea, fever and fluid draining from the ears.
To clean your ears gently and safely in your own home, all you need is a bulb or syringe, available from any pharmacy, and a solution with which to safely rinse out your ears. Purchase the rinse solution (typically carbamide peroxide) at a local drugstore or mix your own by mixing equal portions 3%-4%, glycerin and mineral oil.
To make use of the solution, lightly squeeze the solution into the ear using the bulb or syringe. It works best to lay on your side with a towel readily available to catch any drips. Avoid touching the ear with the syringe or bulb if possible. Leave the solution in each ear for a couple minutes giving it time to work .
After this rinse solution has softened and loosened the ear wax, rinse your ears with lukewarm water, and then dry your ears thoroughly with a soft towel, being careful not to insert it into the ears themselves. If your ears still seem obstructed, repeat a few times a day for 2-3 days. Check with your a hearing specialist or audiologist if the issue continues.