Olive Oil or Sodium Bicarbonate For Ear Wax?
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A lot of people are searching for ‘ear wax olive oil or sodium bicarbonate’ to dissolve their ear wax at home instead of professional ear wax removal.
So, there are two questions to answer here: Is olive oil or sodium bicarbonate better for ear wax? And should you actually be using one of them?
We’ll answer these below.
Olive Oil or Sodium Bicarbonate?
A lot of visitors have asked us “olive oil or sodium bicarbonate for ear wax?” and it’s a very valid question as they are both common recommendations among the general public. However, one is a lot more effective that the other.
Olive oil is used to soften the wax—which is useful when visiting an audiologist for ear wax removal—and sodium bicarbonate will actually break down the wax for you to wipe away at home.
Side effects of olive oil ear drops can be temporary such as discomfort, irritation, dizziness or hearing loss. Stop using olive oil if experiencing skin irritation, and always avoid using with a perforated eardrum, or a possible ear infection.
Should You Actually Use One At All?
As with any home remedies, it’s always advisable not to insert anything into your ear as this could compact the wax against the ear drum to make the situation worse.
If you do use sodium bicarbonate, then instead make sure to lie on the same side afterwards and wipe away any visible wax that exits the ear canal.
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Conclusion
While olive oil is used to soften ear wax, sodium bicarbonate can work well to break down the wax with a much higher chance of exiting the ear canal to wipe away.
However, there may still be some wax left in the ear, so try to resist inserting anything in such as cotton buds which can make the situation worse.
Need More Help?
If you are still experiencing discomfort and would like help from a professional, contact us using one of the methods below.
Book online.
Call 0117 901 2526.
Fill in our contact form.
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