Ear irrigation is commonly performed to treat:
- Excess Earwax (Cerumen): When earwax accumulates and hardens in the ear canal, it can block the ear, cause discomfort, or impair hearing. Irrigation helps to loosen and wash away the excess wax.
- Foreign Objects: If an object (e.g., cotton swab tips, small beads, or insects) becomes lodged in the ear, irrigation may help to flush it out.
- Infections or Inflammation: In some cases, ear irrigation can be used as part of treatment for infections or inflammation, though it should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- Cleaning for Medical Examination: Sometimes, doctors use irrigation to clean the ear before an examination or procedure.
Ear irrigation can be an effective way to remove excess earwax or debris from the ear canal, but it should be done carefully to avoid potential complications.
