Ear irrigation is a procedure used to remove excess earwax or foreign materials from the ear canal. It involves using water, saline, or oil to clear out extra wax in the ear. Ear irrigation may be performed by a doctor or at home using an irrigation kit that includes a bulb syringe. The procedure is generally safe, but it can cause some side effects such as dizziness, middle ear damage, otitis externa, and perforation of the eardrum.

Ear irrigation is indicated when there is an accumulation of cerumen that is associated with symptoms, prevents the necessary assessment of the ear, or both. It is one of the many options in treating cerumen impaction and a method that is readily available to general practitioners and emergency rooms. Prior to having ear irrigation, it is recommended to use a dropper/pipette to instill 2-3 drops of pharmacy grade olive oil into the ear canal for a minimum of 7 nights.

There are a few contraindications to performing ear irrigation, including a patients inability to sit upright, a patent tympanostomy tube, a patient who is unwilling or unable to sit still, a foreign body present in the ear canal, a perforated tympanic membrane, an opening into the mastoid, and severe swimmers ear. If a person experiences sudden pain, nausea, or dizziness after irrigating their ear, they should stop immediately.

Overall, ear irrigation can be an effective earwax removal method for people who have a buildup of earwax in one or both of their ears. However, it is important to use caution and avoid inserting the syringe too far into the ear, especially when using a needleless IV catheter on its tip. If you are unsure about performing ear irrigation, it is best to consult a healthcare professional.