We all know what ear wax is. It's that yellowish-orange hard sticky substance that accumulates in the ear canal. The medical term for ear wax is cerumen. Ear wax is actually nature's way of protecting the ears. It prevents dirt and other foreign substances from entering the ear. Most of us use a cotton swab to remove excess ear wax from our ears but when it comes to removing ear wax from an infant's delicate ears we must exercise caution.
Instructions
1. Observe whether you can see excess ear wax. An infant's ears usually do not secrete an excess amount of ear wax. In most infants ear wax removal is not necessary. In any case, if excess ear wax is present you can use a washcloth to remove it.
2. Clean your infant's ears with a warm washcloth. Start from the top portion of the ear and work your way down making sure to get in all the folds and creases. Be sure to clean behind the ear. Leave the ear wax removal for the last part of the cleansing.
3. Twist a corner of the washcloth and gently dab the ear wax from the ear. This is the easiest and most gentle way to remove ear wax from your infant's ears without causing any pain or damaging the ear. Warm water will soften any build up of ear wax for easy removal. Make sure to wring out the washcloth thoroughly in order to prevent water from entering the ear. Be sure to dry the ear with a soft towel.
4. Leave the ear wax alone unless it is causing a problem. Ear wax in infants usually doesn't present a problem so steps to remove it may be unnecessary. Infants usually do not produce enough ear wax to signify concern over its removal. But in the event that excess ear wax would present a problem it would be wise to have a doctor remove it rather than trying to remove it on your own.
5. Notice if excess ear wax may be causing your infant pain or discomfort. If this seems to be the case consult your pediatrician. If ear wax removal seems unnecessary the doctor can do so in his office. Attempting to remove ear wax at home with cotton swabs or other means could result in the perforation of your infant's eardrum or could otherwise damage the ear. Using a cotton swab could also push ear wax further into the ear canal which may obstruct hearing or cause further discomfort. Regular cleansing of your infant's ears with a warm washcloth should be sufficient.
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