Ear Wax Care Options
- Brandon Larsen
- Oct 27, 2024
- 5 min read
Symptoms:
Hearing Loss: One of the most common symptoms of ear wax buildup is a gradual loss of hearing. This is often temporary and improves after the wax is removed.
Earache or Discomfort: Excessive ear wax can cause pain or discomfort in the ear. This might feel like a dull ache or a feeling of fullness in the ear.
Tinnitus: Some people experience a ringing or buzzing in the ear (tinnitus) due to impacted ear wax.
Itchiness in the Ear Canal: Itching inside the ear can indicate ear wax blockage or irritation caused by a buildup.
Dizziness: In severe cases, impacted ear wax can press against the eardrum, leading to dizziness or a feeling of imbalance.
Odor or Discharge: If the ear wax becomes infected, you may notice a foul smell or discharge from the ear.
Common Causes of Ear Wax Buildup:
Overproduction of Ear Wax: Some people naturally produce more ear wax than others, leading to frequent blockages.
Using Cotton Swabs: Using cotton swabs to clean the ears can push wax deeper into the ear canal, causing impaction.
Earphones or Hearing Aids: Regular use of earphones or hearing aids can block the natural flow of ear wax out of the ear, contributing to buildup.
Narrow Ear Canals: Some individuals have naturally narrower ear canals, making it easier for wax to accumulate.
Self-Care Options:
Over-the-Counter Ear Drops: Ear drops such as Debrox or Murine can help soften ear wax, making it easier for the body to expel it naturally.
Cost: $5 - $15.
Irrigation Kits: These kits allow you to gently flush out ear wax using a bulb syringe or other devices.
Cost: $10 - $30.
Oil Treatments: Applying a few drops of olive oil, mineral oil, or baby oil into the ear can soften ear wax, helping it to naturally drain out over time.
Cost: Less than $10.
When to Bring in a Medical Professional:
Severe Pain or Hearing Loss: If you're experiencing significant discomfort or hearing loss that doesn't improve with self-care, it's time to consult a healthcare provider.
Infection Symptoms: If you notice discharge, a foul odor, or fever, seek medical care immediately as these could be signs of an ear infection.
Dizziness or Tinnitus: These symptoms, especially if accompanied by other serious signs, may require evaluation by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist.
Telehealth Options:
Telehealth providers can guide you through treatment for ear wax buildup, especially if you’re unsure whether your symptoms require medical attention.
Teladoc Health
Teladoc connects patients with doctors who can assess earwax issues remotely and recommend at-home treatments or refer you for in-person care.
Amwell
Amwell offers virtual visits where healthcare professionals can diagnose earwax impaction and suggest treatment options, such as ear drops or irrigation.
PlushCare
PlushCare’s virtual doctors can diagnose ear wax buildup and provide treatment advice or prescriptions for ear drops, if necessary.
MDLIVE
MDLIVE provides consultations with doctors who can help with ear wax removal strategies, offer guidance on using over-the-counter remedies, and advise on next steps.
Finding Cost-Effective In-Person Care:
For more complicated cases of ear wax impaction, in-person care may be necessary. Here are some ways to keep costs manageable:
Insurance Provider Directory: Look for in-network providers through your insurance plan to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Online Directories: Websites like Zocdoc can help you find nearby healthcare professionals who specialize in ear, nose, and throat care.
Price Comparison Tools: Use services like Healthcare Bluebook to compare prices for ear wax removal procedures in your area.
In-Person Care Options and Estimated Costs:
Primary Care Doctor: Your primary care physician can remove ear wax during a regular office visit using irrigation or manual tools.
Cost: $100 - $200 per visit, depending on location and insurance.
Urgent Care Centers: For more immediate care, urgent care centers can remove ear wax using irrigation or other techniques.
Cost: $75 - $150 per visit, depending on whether you need additional procedures or medication.
ENT Specialist: An ENT specialist may use advanced techniques like suction or manual removal of wax, especially in cases of stubborn or impacted ear wax.
Cost: $200 - $500 per visit, depending on the complexity of the procedure.
Lab and Imaging Options:
Hearing Tests: If ear wax impaction is causing significant hearing loss, your doctor may recommend a hearing test to rule out other causes.
Cost: $50 - $150.
Otoscopy: A healthcare provider may use a specialized tool called an otoscope to visually inspect the ear canal.
Cost: Usually included in the cost of a doctor’s visit but can range from $50 - $100 if performed separately.
Recommended Care Pathway:
Start with Self-Care: Try over-the-counter ear drops or oil treatments to soften the wax and attempt at-home removal. Irrigation kits can also be helpful for minor blockages.
Consult Telehealth: If self-care doesn't work or you're unsure about your symptoms, schedule a telehealth consultation. A doctor can recommend the best course of action, such as prescription ear drops or an in-person visit.
Seek In-Person Care for Severe Buildup: If ear wax impaction is causing significant hearing loss, pain, or dizziness, visit a primary care doctor, urgent care center, or ENT specialist for professional removal.
Found This Helpful?
Share your next steps in the comments below.
Need More Help? Schedule a Consultation with Us at Front Door Healthcare.
Let's talk! We’ll discuss your health goals and concerns. While we don’t dispense medical advice or care, we'll help you with:
Personalized Appointments - We'll guide you to the right medical providers, considering your preferences, budget, and quality of care.
Cost-Savings - Get assistance in finding affordable treatments, medications, and healthcare services without compromising your care plan.
Insurance & Billing Guidance - We’ll help you navigate insurance options, appeals, and billing questions, so you can focus on your health.
Meet Alex:
Alex, a 55-year-old graphic designer, started experiencing muffled hearing in his right ear after regularly using earbuds for long hours. He tried cleaning his ear with cotton swabs, but the problem worsened, and he soon developed a mild earache.
Alex decided to use an over-the-counter irrigation kit but found no relief. He scheduled a telehealth visit with Teladoc, where the doctor recommended he see a primary care physician for professional removal. The visit cost him $40 through his insurance.
At his primary care appointment, the doctor used irrigation to flush out the ear wax. The procedure was quick, and his hearing was immediately restored. The total cost of the in-person visit was $120, covered in part by his insurance, leaving Alex with a $50 co-pay.
In total, Alex spent $90 (telehealth + co-pay) on resolving his ear wax issue, a cost he considered reasonable for restoring his hearing and comfort.
Comments