Listen! Don’t mess with ear wax

PLEASE don’t try using a tooth pick to remove your ear wax!

According to reports published last week, increasing numbers of patients are turning to bizarre and dangerous methods to get rid of it. I’ve also heard of people using hair pins, and even came across a video of a man using an in-ear camera to get a closer look.

Few GP surgeries offer wax removal because most of the time it isn’t needed – usually it comes out naturally. And it’s important – it protects the ear.

But sticking things in the ear risks damaging the ear drum, causing infection and jamming the wax further in.

If your hearing does suffer due to wax, ask a pharmacist for softening drops or oil. Alternatively, some opticians offer removal procedures.

Whatever you do, don’t attempt to solve the problem yourself.