Experts are urging people to be cautious of DIY health remedies as the nation adapts to staying at home.

Audiologist Orla Walsh says that this is particularly important when it comes to our ears, which can be permanently damaged if they are not cared for properly. Being stuck at home and unable to keep up with usual routines, could see many people treat common ailments themselves, particularly when it comes to things like earwax.

Cotton buds, match sticks, hair grips, pencils and paper clips are just some of the common items that people reach for in a desperate bid to tackle their blocked or itchy ears. But they should all be avoided. They will only make matters worse and can lead to serious and possibly permanent damage to your hearing.

‘The golden rule is never put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear,’ she warns. ‘At Specsavers we carry out an estimated 40,000 ear wax removals a year, so there is not much we haven’t seen. Our experience and training make our audiology teams the go-to experts in this field.’

Here Orla provides his top tips and advice to help manage ear wax, and explains what you should never do:

Why do we have earwax?

There are many reasons why we have earwax but ultimately its function is to protect and clear the ear, taking trapped dirt and debris with it when it falls out. Its sticky texture prevents bacteria and germs from moving further into the ear and causing infections and helps keep out any unwelcome guests. Earwax also helps lubricate the skin and maintains the ear’s natural PH balance to prevent irritation and dryness.

Usually your body will produce enough earwax to maintain ear health but sometimes this wax can become hard or impacted, which can lead to problems such as hearing loss or discomfort.

What is earwax?

Earwax isn’t actually wax. It gets its name from its waxy, sticky texture.

It is produced by the outer part of the ear canal, and is made up of natural oil and sweat, mixed with dead skin cells and hair. You tend to get two types of wax and it’s all down to your genetics. Some people will have dry, flaky wax, others will have softer, moist earwax that is brown or orange in colour. The correct medical term for earwax is cerumen, but some slang terms include ear potato, ear raisin and golden balls!

Other mammals also have ear wax, including whales. Whales never clean out their ears. Their earwax builds up, leaving behind a life story in fatty acids and cholesterols.

In medieval times, earwax and other human substances were used as pigments to write manuscripts. It was also used to stop threads from fraying before we had waxed thread.

Believe it or not, the early versions of a lip balm were also based on earwax. It was recommended in the 1832 edition of the American Frugal Housewife to help treat cracked lips. Not something Specsavers recommend today.

What are the symptoms of excess earwax?

If your ears are blocked with wax it can sometimes feel as if you’ve lost your hearing as noises can become more muffled. You may experience ringing or a popping sensation or feel pain or a ‘fullness’ in your ear. It’s a strange sensation and can be disconcerting if you haven’t experienced it before.

How can you prevent earwax build-up?

The best thing to do is to avoid putting anything in your ears that could push earwax further into your ear canal and lead to impacted wax, infection or even a perforated ear drum. It is extremely important not to put things such as cotton buds, ear candles, match sticks, hair grips and pencils (yes really) in your ears to rid them of any build up. It’s also important to keep your ears clean. You should regularly wipe around the outside of your ear, particularly after showering or washing your face.

What should you do if my ears become blocked?

Earwax does usually fall out on its own. If it doesn’t and causes a persistent blockage, it’s best to seek professional advice.

Eardrops or olive oil can help to soften the wax. This is generally carried out for three to five days before a wax removal appointment. However, these drops can cause the earwax to expand, making the blockage worse and potentially causing further irritation. If you develop a foul taste in your mouth, you should cease using the drops immediately.

If you have any concerns about using these products you should always consult your pharmacist or doctor. If ear wax is a persistent problem and the blockage remains, it is best to speak to an audiologist who will be able to give you the best advice for your situation.

At this present time, in line with the latest guidance, we have temporarily suspended our ear wax removal service. However, we are still here to help and can signpost you to the appropriate health professional in your area.

You can also find a wealth of information, expert advice, and a free online hearing test, on www.specsavers.ie/hearing