ear cleaning

[Grump]

I need to get so wax out of my ear but I don't want to spend 200 dollars at the doctors. The last time I used a lavage kit from the drug store it didn't work too well and I got an ear infection and I don't think sticking stuff in myself is a good idea. Are there any sort of businesses I can go to less expensive or am I better off simply getting someone at home to help me?

[ENTMD]

There are some Audiologists who will clean ears and may do so for less than what you may be charged at a doctors office.  You could simply call around -- offices (of any kind) should be able to quote you charges for this procedure and then you can make a more informed choice.  Some wax impactions are well beyond the abilities of the over-the-counter remedies, as you have discovered.  Whatever you do, DO NOT fall for anyone who tries to offer you "ear candling" (just in case you aren't aware of this scam already).

[Nancy T]

I used to use Debrox drops, but my new doctor's office said NO. They said, for two evenings in a row, put a few drops of regular vegetable (cooking) oil, or baby oil, in your ear, lying on your side for a few minutes, then put in cotton balls to keep it from spilling out. After two nights of this, the wax might be flushed out easily with water. The nurse's station at my doctor's office flushed mine out last time, but next time I'm going to try it at home with the bulb that came with the Debrox kit. You could TRY it yourself, and if it doesn't work you could then see an audiologist or doctor's office. They may just let the nurse do it instead of your having to see the doctor; at least you can ask. If you've used the oil ahead of time, it will go much faster. I was astounded how fast the wax came out when I used the oil--one or two flushes, as opposed to the epic battles at my previous doctor's office. Afterwards, be careful not to scare yourself when flushing the toilet! :)  (Because everything sounds so loud and rustly.)

[kjelltp]

The ear is self cleansing.  If it isn't you should spend those 200 bucks and have it removed professionally.    For a natural remedy, some use slightly heated pure olive oil drops..