DEAR DR. GOTT: Does hydrogen peroxide help with hard earwax in children, and how much should I use? I thought I read that two drops in each ear every night was correct, but I’m unsure.

DEAR READER: Ear wax protects the ear by preventing bacteria, dust and foreign matter from entering and causing damage. Wax can build up in the ear canal but can also occur if a person attempts to clean the ear but inadvertently pushes the wax deeper into the canal.

Softeners can include glycerin, hydrogen peroxide, baby oil, olive oil, mineral oil or almond oil, saline solution, or over-the-counter preparations designed for such a purpose. Hydrogen peroxide and other methods should be used only if you are sure there is no infection, discharge, redness or hearing impairment. [Read more...]