Earwax provides an important function by keeping dust and dirt from entering the ear canal. Your ears are designed to regularly clean themselves by pushing earwax out. Usually, wax will eventually go away on its own. Sometimes, though, earwax can build up or get pushed back against the eardrum and need more attention.

If you want to clean out the earwax yourself, don’t use cotton swabs, as they may damage your eardrum. Over-the-counter earwax drops are available at your local pharmacy. Use as directed. If this doesn’t do the trick, consider scheduling an appointment to clear out the wax.