Our ears produce wax which is generally produced to protect them from the external environment. It has antibacterial properties and antifungal properties. However, having too much earwax accumulating in the ear causes problems like infections, itching, and hearing difficulties. Even though removing the ear wax is not medically required, it's a basic hygiene method that people follow. Medical professionals recommend the safest way to clean ears with hydrogen peroxide. But "How to clean ears with hydrogen peroxide?" Are there any risks associated with it? Scroll down to read all your answers. Read Also: How to use Essential oils for ear infection?

What is hydrogen peroxide? Where is it used?

Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic that is used on the skin. It prevents infections from burns, cuts, etc. Along with applications on the skin, it is used to rinse the mouth to eliminate irritation. It would be best if you didn't use Hydrogen peroxide in cases of deep cuts and wounds or serious burns. Its chemical formula is H2O2. Besides the functions mentioned above, it is also used as a bleaching agent. It is used in a diluted form for consumers to use it. Its concentrated form is used for use in the industry.

Why is Hydrogen peroxide used to clean ears?

Hydrogen peroxide can break down, soften and dissolve the earwax.
Certain ear drops available in the market contain various forms of H2O2.
A very common type is carbamide hydroxide. It oxidizes the wax, which causes it to become soft and helps remove the bubble.
Very little evidence suggests hydrogen peroxide's effectiveness in removing earwax.

Also Read: Hearing Aids FAQ

How to clean ears with hydrogen peroxide?

How to clean ears with hydrogen peroxide: A doctor usually prescribed ear drops after evaluating the seriousness of the problem. One should always remember to follow the instructions provided in the package or given by the doctor. But usually, the instructions state to squeeze around five drops in each ear three to four times a day for up to a week. These are the general tips to Get rid of earwax using Hydrogen peroxide that are to be followed.

Lying down on one side.
Squeezing the drops into the ear
Staying still for roughly 5 to 6 minutes and wiping off the excess drops using tissue.

Most ear drops contain around 3 to 4 percent hydrogen peroxide, the recommended concentration for earwax removal.An ear drop solution can be produced at home using an equal water and hydrogen peroxide ratio. It should only be used after consulting a doctor. Read Also: How to Get rid of the Crackling Sound in my Ears?

Risks and Precautions to be taken when using hydrogen peroxide -

Usually, hydrogen peroxide does not lead to any side effects, but it can cause problems if a person already has an ear infection or any damage to the ear. One should never insert foreign objects inside the ear to remove the earwax as it will lead to more and more problems. To avoid any complications that arise, one should always

Consult a doctor before using an ear drop solution.
Always read and follow the directions on the packaging.
Avoid ear drops in case of injury, leading to increased pain and infection.
Avoiding cotton buds to clean as it pushes the wax further inside the ear.

A person with an ear infection don't clean ears with hydrogen peroxide; that person should visit a doctor for treatment and advice. Read Also: Are Ear Infections Contagious?

What are the alternatives used for cleaning the ear?

When hydrogen peroxide is not doing the job, you can use alternatives such as irrigation of the earwax and ear syringes. These products are available online and in various stores. One should always use these products if they have sufficient knowledge about them. One should not use paperclips, cotton buds, hairpins, or other objects to unblock the ears. These products push the wax far away inside the ear. Other ways of cleaning the ear are by applying warm oil drops and flushing out the ear with distilled water or salt water. Also Read: Ear Infections: A Guide From An ENT Specialist Singapore

Conclusion:

Earwax is the substance produced by the ear to protect the ear from pathogens and keep it safe from the external environment. Some people produce an extra amount of earwax that needs to be removed to keep the ear clean. An excess of earwax can cause problems like irritation, itching, and reduced hearing ability. Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical that is commonly used to clean earwax. It does so by softening, melting, and then removing the wax from the ear. Various ear drops are available, which contain around 3 to 4% of H2O2 content and are usually used to clean the ears. Other than hydrogen peroxide, other options like syringes are available to clean the ears. One needs to always consult the doctor if any complications arise due to the use of ear drops. Hydrogen peroxide generally has no pronounced side effects but can irritate people with irritation and eye injury; hence, such people should not be using it. These are the methods of clean ears with hydrogen peroxide. The natural methods of cleaning the ears include using warm oil and also by making use of salt water. All these methods should be done with utmost care and consulted before using them personally, as the ear is very sensitive.