Suggest Treatment For Wax In Ears

Posted on Tue, 7 Oct 2014

Question: Hi. I have both ears blocked with wax. This became apparent while swimming on holidays. I visited a doctor after trying two days of wax drops. The doctor scratched the inside of my ear whist trying to remove the impacted wax. He gave my antibiotics. Should I be concerned? When he did t it felt like a scratch and did not rupture my ear drum - thankfully. Should I o to a recommended ear, nose and throat specialist here in Thailand or wait until I get back to Australia in a few days?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (41 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Please consult a good ENT Specialist...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query. I will try to help you with this problem.

If the wax has been completely removed, then there is no need to take the antibiotics as the trauma over the skin will heal by itself. In case, the wax is incompletely removed, then you will require an antibiotic as the chances of infection are more with retained wax and traumatized skin.

My sincere advice to you is to consult a good ENT specialist in Thailand, get your ears checked or else, this simple thing may spoil your holidays.

Bumrungrad International Hospital is one of the renowned hospitals in Bangkok. You can take an opinion from the ENT specialist over there. Meanwhile, avoid ear drops or water into the ears.

Hope I have answered your query; I will be available for the follow-up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (30 minutes later)

Dear Dr XXXXXXX

Thank you for your advice.

Once the trauma occurred the doctor immediately stopped so the wax is still present.

Do you think it's ok to wait until I get home in a few days to have this checked or should it be done sooner? Is a scratch something to be concerned about? I'm obviously now a little reluctant to have anything done however the ENT specialist here was recommended and I can see her tomorrow if necessary.

Would it be safe to fly?

Many thanks,
XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
better to get it removed sooner

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

1. If the wax is soft, it is better to get it removed as soon as possible or else, the pressure symptoms will bother you when you go for swimming or flying. It is a simple problem, an ENT Specialist will be able to remove it completely and the antibiotics can be avoided.

2. A simple scratch without pain can be left alone; if associated with pain, then, antibiotic is required.

3. I do understand your apprehension; but, I would still insist you to consult an apt ENT specialist. Do not worry! You will definitely feel better after the removal of wax.

I wish you good health and good luck.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E