Expert: Harriet B Jacobster, Au.D. - 5/4/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I've been having a some  serious wax problems for over a year since I moved to New Jersey. Usually one ear clogs up with wax badly. So I went to a doctor last year and he used a machine and cleaned it up and everything was ok for over a year(I kept constantly cleaning it).

Now today it catched up to the point that its compeltely clogged... I used Debrox earwax removal aid(www.debrox.com) and applied the 10 drops...I tried cleaning it up afterwards with Q-tips since I didnt have a  syringe.  My ear the got clogged worst and I lost more hearing and its starting to increase heavily in pain with ringing.

So I went to the nearest farmacy to buy a syringe. I used it but there wasnt any positive effects... my pain increased. Maybe the wax dried up since I used the debrox a while ago.I also thought water clogged up then and used a swimmers ear aid and there wasnt any effect. Now I stopped and decided  to ask for help before trying the debrox with the syringe right away after.

What should I do? I can't stand this pain and the ringing is driving me nuts. I'm having trouble with everything due to the pain. Please help, should I do debrox? I dont know how long I can stand with this pain.

ANSWER: Hi Christian,
You need to see an ear specialist immediately.  By inserting the Q-tip, you most likely pushed the wax against your eardrum, or even worse, you may have pushed it through. If the pain is truly unbearable, then I would even recommend a trip to an emergency clinic.
I will also recommend that, from now on, you see an ear doctor regularly, before the wax builds up to this point.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified Doctor of Audiology


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Well the pain is somewhat unbearable... I can stand a bit by staying calm... I just took some advil gel caplets and hopefuly it'll help up with the pain.

I do have a issue abotu going to a doctor or emergency room. I dont have any insurance and last time i went to the doctor just for a quick ear clean up, he charged me $140. Something I can't even afford anymore.

Is there any home measure I can take at this point or going to a doctor is my only choice?

Answer
Hi Christian,
I understand about the money issue.  However, at this point, by what you have described, you would only damage your ear and hearing more by using any home remedy.  Think of the money as an investment in your healthy hearing.  Maybe you can work out a payment plan with the doctor.  Or, perhaps there is a walkin clinic nearby. But, at this point, your only choice is to see a doctor.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified Doctor of Audiology