Dealing with Earwax in Children: What to Do When It Falls Back In

Earwax falls into the ear?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about cleaning earwax in a five-year-old child.
During the process, a piece of earwax fell back into the ear, and since it was too deep and I couldn't see it clearly, I didn't dare to continue trying to remove it.
Usually, I only clean the visible earwax on the outside.
This time, while trying to remove it, it fell back in.
The child reports no discomfort.
What should I be aware of? Is it okay not to address it, or will the earwax likely come out on its own?

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/17

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if there are no obvious discomforts, you can start with self-observation, as it may naturally resolve during physical activity.
However, if you continue to have concerns, you may visit an otolaryngologist for examination and management.

Reply Date: 2023/06/17

More Info

When it comes to dealing with earwax in children, especially in young ones like your five-year-old, it’s important to approach the situation with care and understanding. Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the body to protect the ear canal. It helps trap dust, debris, and microorganisms, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. In most cases, earwax will naturally migrate out of the ear canal on its own, aided by normal jaw movements such as chewing and talking.

In your situation, where a piece of earwax has fallen back into the ear during cleaning, it’s generally not a cause for alarm, especially since your child reports no discomfort. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Natural Self-Cleaning: The ear has a self-cleaning mechanism. Earwax typically moves outward as new wax is produced, and it can often be expelled naturally without intervention. If the earwax is not causing any blockage or discomfort, it’s usually best to leave it alone.

2. Avoid Deep Cleaning: It’s advisable to avoid inserting objects, including cotton swabs, deep into the ear canal. This can push the wax further in, potentially leading to impaction or even injury to the ear canal or eardrum. Cleaning should be limited to the outer ear, where you can see the wax.

3. Observation: Since your child is not experiencing any discomfort, you can monitor the situation. If you notice any signs of discomfort, hearing loss, or if the earwax seems to be causing issues (like a feeling of fullness or pressure), it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

4. When to Seek Help: If earwax buildup leads to symptoms such as hearing loss, earache, or a feeling of fullness in the ear, it’s important to seek medical advice. An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can safely remove the wax if necessary.

5. Regular Check-ups: Regular pediatric check-ups can help monitor ear health. If your child has a history of earwax buildup or ear infections, discussing this with your pediatrician can provide tailored advice.

6. Hygiene Practices: Encourage your child to avoid inserting anything into their ears, including fingers or cotton swabs. Instead, a gentle wash with a cloth during bath time can help keep the outer ear clean.

7. White Noise and Hearing: Regarding your earlier concern about white noise, if the volume is kept at a safe level (generally below 60 decibels), it should not negatively impact your child's hearing. However, prolonged exposure to loud sounds can be harmful, so it’s important to monitor the volume and duration of exposure.

In conclusion, while it’s understandable to be concerned about earwax in children, the best approach is often to let nature take its course unless there are signs of a problem. If you have ongoing concerns or if the situation changes, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for guidance. They can provide reassurance and help ensure your child’s ear health is maintained.

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