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How to Safely Clean Your Ears: Tips and What to Avoid

Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a physiological component of the external ear. It consists of the secretion of the sebaceous glands and ceruminal glands in the external auditory canal, which is mixed with shed epithelial cells, dust, hairs and pigments. However, sometimes earwax can build up and cause discomfort or even hearing loss. In this blog post, we'll explore the best practices for earwax removal, common symptoms of earwax blockage, and safe home remedies for cleaning your ears.

The Benefits of Ear Cleaning Before a Hearing Test

Preparing for a hearing test? It’s a good idea to clean your ears before heading to the appointment. While earwax is a normal part of ear health, it can affect the results of your test when too much accumulates. Cleaning your ears beforehand ensures you’re getting a more accurate diagnosis. This simple step can make a significant difference in the quality of your hearing test results, providing a clearer picture of your hearing health.

The Dangers of Using Cotton Buds for Ear Wax Removal

Many people use cotton buds (also known as cotton swabs and Q-tips) to remove moisture from the ear and thoroughly clean the area. However, despite the relief it provides, this practice is not recommended by experts.

Earwax and Ear Infections: Reasons and Precautions

Earwax serves several important functions, including protecting the ear from foreign materials, lubricating the ear canal, and preventing dryness and itching. However, when the ear's self-cleaning system fails, a wax plug can form, leading to issues such as hearing loss, a feeling of blocked ears, itching, and an increased risk of infection.

Using Olive Oil for Earwax and Ear Infections

Do you have a feeling of pressure in your ear, it itches and pulls, or are you suddenly having trouble hearing? These can be signs of earwax blockage. This is usually no reason to panic - and a special material is unnecessary. There are also natural methods to gently and thoroughly clear the affected ear.

How To Remove Stubborn Ear Wax at Home?

Earwax is simply an oily substance produced by specific glands located inside the external auditory canal. Earwax plays a role in lubricating and protecting the ear canal. However, when it is produced in an excessive way, the protective effect disappears, causing only discomfort. If you’re dealing with stubborn earwax, here are some safe and effective methods to remove it at home.

How to prevent hearing loss caused by earwax?

Hearing loss, called hypoacusis, consists of a decrease in the ability to hear in one or both ears and can occur for various reasons. Progressive aging of the hair cells responsible for hearing function, congenital defects of the ear, improper lifestyle, taking certain medications, infections affecting the ear, etc. In this article, we try to understand what measures should be taken to prevent hearing loss, which is mostly caused by earwax.

Got an Ear Full? Here’s Some Advice for Ear Wax Removal

Learn how to safely manage and remove earwax buildup. Discover expert tips, home remedies, and professional microsuction services to maintain healthy ears and prevent discomfort or hearing issues.

Tax Deductions for Earplugs and IEMs in Australia

Whether you’re filing your tax as an individual or a business owner, you’re probably wondering which expenses are eligible for tax deductions.

Why your ears get blocked on holidays?

Holidays are meant to be the best time to rest and rejuvenate, but they can be met with an unexpected guest - clogged ears. But why do our ears decide to act up during what should be a relaxing time?

What is Ear Wax? A Simple Guide

Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a sticky, yellowish substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It might not be the most pleasant topic, but ear wax actually plays a vital role in keeping your ears healthy.

Are AirPods bad for your ears?

The answer is yes… but also no. It’s a little more complex than a yes or no answer, so let’s break down everything you need to know about the safety of AirPods.

Every earwax removal method compared

There are lots of different earwax removal methods available, but which one is the best? And which should you avoid? In this article, we break down every technique available.

Medicare rebates for hearing tests

As of 2023, the government has introduced some much needed modifications to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS), which includes audiology.

What are IEMs? And how do they work?

In Ear Monitors have become very popular in the last decade, and for good reason. They have a lot of advantages over traditional earbuds, and can be used in a variety of industries.

Tinnitus Awareness Week 2024

Help spread awareness and support for tinnitus during Tinnitus Awareness Week, from Monday the 5th of February to Sunday the 11th of February.

Can blasting music hurt your ears?

There’s nothing like blasting your favourite song. But can this damage your hearing? The short answer is yes, it can cause temporary or even permanent damage.

Should you wear earplugs when riding a motorcycle?

Wearing earplugs while riding a motorcycle is a topic that has been debated for years and years. Is it really necessary?

Can a single gunshot damage your hearing?

We all know gunshots are loud, but how loud are they really? Can a single shot damage your hearing? And are earplugs enough to protect your ears?

Everything you need to know about swimming earplugs

If you swim regularly, you may have heard of or seen swimming earplugs. This quick guide will run you through everything you need to know about swimming earplugs.

Can concerts damage your hearing?

While live concerts may be an exhilarating experience, it can cause long term damage. Loud music for long periods of time can have lasting effects.

Is it safe to sleep with earplugs in?

As the world gets louder and louder, more people are looking for a quieter way to sleep. An easy solution to block out the noise is to sleep with earplugs. But is it actually safe?

5 ways you could be harming your ears

You could be harming your ears without even realise it. In this guide we’ve listed 5 common ways you could be damaging your ears.

What causes Tinnitus? And how can you prevent it?

Tinnitus is a common hearing issue that affects 15-20% of people. Learn the symptoms, what causes it and how to prevent it within a few minutes.

How accurate are online hearing tests?

Do "free online hearing tests" actually work? Read through the pros and cons of an online test and decide for yourself.

Are Silicon In-Ear Monitors Better Than Acrylic for Comfort and Durability?

Discover why silicon in-ear monitors outshine acrylic counterparts in comfort and durability. Explore the ultimate guide for superior sound gear.

"R U OK?" Day: A Deeper Dive into Hearing Loss and Tinnitus' Impact on Mental Health

Explore the often-overlooked connection between mental health and hearing issues this 'R U OK?' Day. Learn how hearing loss and tinnitus not only affect your ears but also your emotional well-being, and find out what proactive steps you can take for better hearing health.

How do in ear monitors work?

In-ear monitors are devices usually used by musicians, singers and sound engineers. Here’s what you need to know about them.

Why every singer needs to invest in in-ear monitors

Singers around the world are making the decision to invest in in-ear monitors. Here’s why you should do the same.

Everything you need to know about the custom earplug process

Custom earplugs are the best hearing protection because they’re a perfect fit. Learn more about the custom earplug process at earLAB here.

How olive oil can help with earwax removal

Olive oil and earwax? It seems like an unlikely remedy, but there's some truth to it. Here’s what you need to know about using olive oil to remove earwax.

5 Surprising times you'll need to wear hearing protection

There are a range of situations where you need hearing protection and you might not even know it! Learn more about protecting your ears here.

Everything you need to know about impacted earwax

Struggling with blocked ears? It’s likely you have impacted earwax. Find out if it will resolve itself or if you need to seek the help of a professional.

The different types of earplugs explained

Are you wearing the right type of earplugs? Here’s what you need to know about the different types of earplugs and if you’re wearing the right ones.

The biggest ear wax myths busted

It's essential to get your ear cleaning information from a trusted source like an ear clinic. Here are the four most common ear wax myths floating around.

The most common causes of excessive earwax

Struggling with excessive earwax? Discover the main causes and how you can easily reduce and remove earwax buildup here.

5 Ways Musicians Can Protect Their Hearing

Loud music can lead to hearing loss and tinnitus. If you’re a musician, here’s how you can protect your hearing before it’s too late!

How to prevent Surfer’s Ear

An ear infection is the first sign of Surfer’s Ear, and you don’t have to be a surfer to get it. See how you can prevent Surfer’s Ear here.

3 Reasons why ear candling isn’t safe

Consider the dangers of ear candling in Melbourne. Call earLAB for expert wax removal – (03) 9317 7567.

9 reasons why your ears feel blocked

While the ears are self-cleaning and earwax normally makes its way out of the ears without any assistance, some people do get build up.As an expert in earwax removal, I’ve seen plenty of blocked ears. Here are the most common reasons why your ears might feel clogged:

How to get a proper fit of earphones and why it matters

Did you know that earphones come in all different shapes and sizes? Getting the right fitting earphones matters more than you think! See why here.

Syringing vs microsuction ear wax removal: What’s safest for you and your ears? - earl

If you’re prone to blocked ears, chances are you’ve had your ears syringed before. That’s the traditional method used to remove ear wax blockages, and for a long time it was considered the best option for professional ear cleaning.

How to Safely Clean Your Ears: Tips and What to Avoid

The Benefits of Ear Cleaning Before a Hearing Test

The Dangers of Using Cotton Buds for Ear Wax Removal

Earwax and Ear Infections: Reasons and Precautions

Using Olive Oil for Earwax and Ear Infections

How To Remove Stubborn Ear Wax at Home?

How to prevent hearing loss caused by earwax?

Got an Ear Full? Here’s Some Advice for Ear Wax Removal

Tax Deductions for Earplugs and IEMs in Australia

Why your ears get blocked on holidays?

What is Ear Wax? A Simple Guide

Are AirPods bad for your ears?

Every earwax removal method compared

Medicare rebates for hearing tests

What are IEMs? And how do they work?

Tinnitus Awareness Week 2024

Can blasting music hurt your ears?

Should you wear earplugs when riding a motorcycle?

Can a single gunshot damage your hearing?

Everything you need to know about swimming earplugs

Can concerts damage your hearing?

Is it safe to sleep with earplugs in?

5 ways you could be harming your ears

What causes Tinnitus? And how can you prevent it?

How accurate are online hearing tests?

Are Silicon In-Ear Monitors Better Than Acrylic for Comfort and Durability?

"R U OK?" Day: A Deeper Dive into Hearing Loss and Tinnitus' Impact on Mental Health

How do in ear monitors work?

Why every singer needs to invest in in-ear monitors

Everything you need to know about the custom earplug process

How olive oil can help with earwax removal

5 Surprising times you'll need to wear hearing protection

Everything you need to know about impacted earwax

The different types of earplugs explained

The biggest ear wax myths busted

The most common causes of excessive earwax

5 Ways Musicians Can Protect Their Hearing

How to prevent Surfer’s Ear

3 Reasons why ear candling isn’t safe

9 reasons why your ears feel blocked

How to get a proper fit of earphones and why it matters

Syringing vs microsuction ear wax removal: What’s safest for you and your ears? - earl

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