Can sodium bicarbonate solution soften earwax?

　　Earwax refers to cerumen. Under normal circumstances, when the cerumen is relatively hard and large, sodium bicarbonate solution can soften the cerumen; however, for oily or moist cerumen, sodium bicarbonate solution may not be effective. When there are ear diseases or other special conditions, self-treatment should be avoided, and timely medical consultation and professional guidance are recommended. Detailed explanation is as follows:

　　When cerumen accumulates and has a hard consistency, using sodium bicarbonate solution can help soften the cerumen, facilitating its natural expulsion or professional removal. Instill the sodium bicarbonate solution into the external ear canal, each time soaking for about 5 minutes, which can be performed multiple times daily. After soaking, the external ear canal can be irrigated with a syringe to flush out the cerumen using pressure, or it can be removed using a suction device. When administering the drops, try to fill the ear canal completely and keep the affected ear facing upwards to allow the ear drops to flow into the deeper part of the ear canal as quickly as possible.

　　However, not all types of cerumen are suitable for softening with sodium bicarbonate solution. For example, for oily or moist cerumen, sodium bicarbonate solution may be ineffective and could even exacerbate ear canal discomfort. Additionally, if there is inflammation, infection, or skin damage in the ear canal, using sodium bicarbonate solution may cause irritation or worsen symptoms.

　　After softening the cerumen with sodium bicarbonate solution, timely medical consultation for professional cleaning is recommended to avoid self-cleaning which may cause injury to the external ear canal wall and the eardrum.