to reach into an affected ear in an attempt to clean it out, because doing so can have the opposite effect, pushing the ear wax even deeper into the ear canal.

Drops to safely break up earwax are available over-the-counter and are labeled as 'otic' drops. Products in this category contain carbamide peroxide, which dissolves some of the earwax. Some common brands include Auro and Debrox. When carbamide peroxide ear drops are applied to the ear canal, the patient may hear fizzing and feel a tickling sensation