Can registered hearing aid practitioners (RHAP) remove ear wax?

Cleaning earwax buildup should be done with care to avoid pushing the wax further into the ear canal or causing damage. Here’s a safe and effective method for cleaning wax buildup:

1. Do Not Use Cotton Swabs or Objects: Avoid inserting cotton swabs, hairpins, or any other objects into your ear canal. These can push the wax deeper and potentially harm your ear.
2. Use Warm Water: You can use warm water to soften the earwax and help it naturally work its way out of the ear. Tilt your head to the side and use a bulb syringe or a gentle stream of warm water to flush the ear. Make sure the water is not too hot.
3. Hydrogen Peroxide or Over-the-Counter Drops: Over-the-counter ear drops or a mixture of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water can help soften the earwax. Lie on your side and place a few drops of the solution into the ear. Stay in that position for a few minutes to let the solution work, and then drain the liquid out by tilting your head to the side.
4. Mineral Oil or Baby Oil: Putting a few drops of mineral oil or baby oil into the ear can help soften the wax. Similar to using hydrogen peroxide, lie on your side for a few minutes before draining the oil out.
5. Visit a Healthcare Professional: If you’re experiencing significant earwax buildup or are unsure about cleaning your ears, it’s best to seek help from a healthcare professional. An audiologist or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can safely clean your ears using specialized tools.
6. Do Not Overclean: It’s important not to overclean your ears, as a certain amount of earwax is normal and protective. Excessive cleaning can irritate the ear canal and disrupt its natural self-cleaning process.

If you’re experiencing symptoms like hearing loss, pain, drainage, or a feeling of fullness in the ear, consult a healthcare professional before attempting any cleaning methods. They can evaluate your situation and recommend the best approach for your specific needs.