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A member asked:
Does earwax have to be taken out by doctor?
6 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
No: Ear wax or cerumen due to its pH (acidic) and make up, protects the external ear canal against bacteria and fungus. Most external ear infections are due to a disruption of this protective blanket. Ear wax only needs to be taken out when it occludes the ear canal and makes examination of the tympanic membrane difficult.
Answered 1/28/2015
6.3k views
Leave it alone: Unless ear wax is obstructing hearing the best thing you can do is leave it alone. Wax is there for a reason. It moistens the skin, fights infections and prevents ear dryness. If your ear is completely occluded then having a doctor remove it makes sense. Over the counter methods unfortunately can make things worse by turning the occluding wax into a soft mush. Whatever you do do not use qtips.
Answered 12/29/2011
6.1k views
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