What should I do if hard earwax cannot be softened by soaking?
Disease description:
I've had a hard piece of earwax in my ear for a long time, and I've tried soaking it several times without success. I'd like to know what to do if hard earwax cannot be softened by soaking?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Gang
Hard cerumen that cannot be softened by soaking can be treated by instilling medications such as 1–3% phenol glycerin or 5% sodium bicarbonate to soften the earwax. It is recommended to visit the otolaryngology department at a local hospital, where a healthcare professional can safely remove the hardened cerumen using proper techniques. When hard earwax is present, frequent self-cleaning of the ears is not advised, as it may lead to otitis media.
