Dr. Oliyath Ali
Otolaryngology (E.N.T)
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
Answered by
Medically reviewed by
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
My ear has been clogged for weeks, and it just worsens. The doctors I work with do not see any wax buildup. When I blow through my nose, it does not pop; I have tried chewing gum and yawning. I even attempted hydrogen peroxide and nothing helped. No redness is visible, either. Please help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern. Using Q tips to clean ears is helpful. However, the Q tips are not meant to be used inside the ears and are intended to apply medications like ointment oils on the skin. Putting Q tips in the ear leads to pushing the wax further inside, disturbing the natural cleaning mechanism of the ear, that is, epithelial migration. Also, Q tips can lead to injury in the external auditory canal, which, if caught infection leads to a severe condition called otitis externa. Also, it can cause injury and rupture of the tympanic membrane. As far as your problem is concerned, there are two differential diagnoses. One is eustachian tube blockage, and the other is wax impaction. An exact diagnosis and treatment plan can be suggested after a thorough consultation. I hope you find it helpful. Kind regards.
Was this conversation helpful?
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Otolaryngology (E.N.T)
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy
