Every parent strives hard to keep the baby and the environment clean. Bathing the baby is done with utmost care. Ears do not pose much of a problem. We feel cleaning the outer skin, and the area is insufficient to keep the baby clean. Earwax needs to be handled with care. Cleaning baby ears needs to be done once in a way to ensure that there are no blockages and the baby doesn’t experience discomfort.
But cleaning cannot be done just by In this article, let us learn about earwax, why babies have them, and much more. Let us get started.
In This Article
- Why do Babies Have Earwax?
- Causes of Earwax in Babies
- Symptoms of Excess Earwax in Babies
- Can Earwax Cause Problems in Babies?
- How to Prevent Earwax Problems in Babies?
- How Can You Differentiate Between Earwax Buildup And Ear Infection?
- Top 5 Tips For Cleaning Your Baby’s Ears
- FAQ’s
Why do Babies Have Earwax?
Earwax is a natural secretion of the glands in the ears that is useful in trapping air-borne dirt and particles that can damage the ears when they enter. Baby ear wax is lighter and softer. Protecting their ears from germs, dust, and dirt that could cause infection is vital.
The earwax builds up in the ears and falls naturally once they dry out.
Causes of Earwax in Babies
Earwax is naturally found in a baby`s ears. But finding them build-up is quite a rare phenomenon. The ear canal produces the right amount of ear wax. The excess earwax production could cause pain, discomfort, or interfere with the hearing.
The following are some of the reasons for the excess buildup of earwax.
- Using Cotton Swap for cleaning baby ears could push the wax back into the ears instead of removing it.
- If your little one constantly uses the fingers and pushes the wax back into the ears, they may accumulate.
- Using ear plugs may also be the reason for wax accumulation.
For any reason, do not try to remove the earwax on your own at home. If you find that the build-up is creating discomfort for your little one, consult a pediatrician and get them checked. You can also talk to the doctor to find out the right way of cleaning ear wax at home using earbuds specially designed for babies.
Symptoms of Excess Earwax in Babies
- Though Earwax is very important to prevent the ears from dirt and allergy, too much ear wax may cause stress and discomfort to your little one. The following are the symptoms of accumulation of excess earwax in babies.
- Your little one might keep poking or rubbing the ears constantly as built-up earwax can give much discomfort. You may also observe that they are restless and cranky.
- When the earwax becomes dry and complex, it will come out naturally. If not, the dried-out earwax feels like an object inserted in the ear canal.
- Your little one might also have difficulty hearing when there is a complete blockage, also known as plugging in the ear canal with the wax.
- The most obvious symptom is when you check your little one’s ears, you may notice wax buildup.
Can Earwax Cause Problems in Babies?
Ear wax accumulation is not a severe problem. It can easily be cured with ear drops. It can create discomfort and cause problems for the babies. The following are some of the problems faced by the little ones due to the accumulation of earwax.
- Loss or decreased hearing
- Dizziness
- Ringing in the ears.
- Uncontrollable earache
If you find that your little one has severe discomfort, call your doctor and check them immediately. Ensure to check with your doctor before getting the OTC medicine.
How to Remove Excess Earwax in Babies?
The most crucial point to note is that do not try to remove the ear wax with a normal cotton swab or other objects. This will only worsen the condition and block the ear canal. Call your doctor and check whether they recommend removing the excess earwax at home.
1. Loosen The Ear Wax
The first and foremost step is to loosen the hard ear wax. You can use medicated drops available at medical shops. These are specially formulated for use for babies. You can talk to your pediatrician for recommendations.
2. Remove the Ear Wax
Again, get guidance from your pediatrician. You can use special baby earbuds. Ensure that you don’t push the buds deep into the ear as it can damage the ear canal. Just try to remove the superficial wax buildup.
You can also clean your baby’s ears every day after bathing. Use a warm damp cloth to clean the area around and behind the ears and the inside part of the ear externally to avoid the buildup of dirt.
How to Prevent Earwax Problems in Babies?
Earwax is a natural secretion in the ears for everyone. While you require it to protect your ears, too much of them can damage the ears of the little ones. The following are some ways to prevent earwax problems in babies.
- Avoid using cotton swabs in the ear canal unless you consult the pediatrician
- Check your baby’s ears at regular intervals, at least once a month. If you find wax build-up, talk to your doctor and take the necessary steps to remove it.
- Before using home remedies or doing a home cleaning baby ears, ensure that your little one does not have an ear infection.
How Can You Differentiate Between Earwax Buildup And Ear Infection?
The following are some of the differences between Earwax Buildup and Ear Infection.
| S.No | Basis of Distinction | Earwax Builds Up | Ear Infection |
| 1. | Cause | The Earwax is a natural phenomenon, and the excess built-up is caused if you use cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ears. | The Ear infection results from bacterial infection when the fluid in the interior ear drum is infected. |
| 2. | Symptoms |
|
|
| 3. | Treatment |
|
Depends on each child`s condition. Make sure to contact an ENT to begin the treatment. |
Top 5 Tips For Cleaning Your Baby’s Ears
Here are some important tips you can follow to clean your baby’s ear.
- Always talk to your doctor to understand the right method of cleaning baby ears.
- Make sure that the washcloth is wet with warm water. Ensure that the water is not too hot for the baby.
- Make sure that you ring out the washcloth well. Excess water, if any, may drip into the baby`s ears.
- Rub the outer ear gently with the washcloth to clean any ear wax buildup. Never put the washcloth into the baby`s ears.
- You can use baby earbuds if you have a go ahead from the pediatrician.
Ear wax build-up is normal but needs to be treated before it creates damage. Make sure to check and clean baby ears as a routine to keep them away from damage. Call your doctor for any emergencies.
FAQ’s
1. How do I Know if my Baby Has Ear Wax?
You can know if there is an accumulation of ear wax just by looking at the ears. You may also notice some yellowish wax flowing out of their ears.
2. What Color is The Baby Ear Wax?
The earwax in babies is softer and light-colored – light brown, yellow, or orange.
3. Is it Normal For Babies’ Ears to Have Wax?
A. Yes. It is entirely normal and natural for babies to have ear wax.
