Ear Wax Problems

In the last few years I have been going to a physician a few times a year to clean out ear wax.  More recently I went to an ENT who said everything looked good after it was cleaned out.

I have a few questions.

1 - Is ear wax something to really worry about since no physician including an ENT specialist ever found an infection after my wax was cleaned out?

2 - Can ear wax buildup be stress related?

3 - At my current pace I will probably need my ears cleaned out every 2 or 3 months.  I have heard about self-use syringes but am hesitant I will make things worse using them.  Can you suggest any product that is safe and effective?

4 - I have been trying baby oil or olive oil.  It does seem to help with itching but how can I know if the wax is being removed?

Your answers to these questions and any further advice is greatly appreciated.  Thanks so much in advance.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

To answer your questions:
1) Ear wax is generally a benign condition.  Sometimes it can recur fasting in some patients, in which case going to your physician to have your ears flushed is recommended.

2) I am not aware of ear wax being related to stress.

3) I cannot make any recommendations without evaluation.  Going to your physician would be the safest route.

4) I do not recommend using baby oil or olive oil into your ears to remove the wax on your own.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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