Guide
Earache and earwax — what helps
Prepared by the LekCheck team · Last reviewed: 2026-07-25 · How we create our content
Earache and blockage with earwax are common complaints. Some are mild and passing, but earache can also be a sign of an infection that needs examination. Below we describe what may help and what to watch out for; choose an ingredient to see available products and prices. Do not put objects (including cotton buds) into the ear canal.
This guide was prepared by the LekCheck team and has not been reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any treatment without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
Relieving earache
For earache, painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen are often used according to the leaflet. A warm (not hot) compress on the outside of the ear can help. Earache has many causes — including infection — so for severe, persistent pain or fever a doctor's examination is needed.
Earwax — what to do
Earwax is normal and protects the ear canal; in most people it clears itself. Do not use cotton buds in the canal — they push wax deeper and risk injury. For a blockage, there are over-the-counter drops/sprays that soften the wax. If unsure or with a persistent blockage, see a doctor for safe cleaning.
What NOT to do
Do not put cotton buds, hairpins or other objects into the ear canal, and do not use 'ear candles' — they are ineffective and dangerous. Do not put anything in the ear if a burst eardrum is suspected (e.g. severe pain, discharge of fluid). If unsure, always consult first.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for severe or persistent pain, fever, discharge of fluid or pus from the ear, sudden hearing loss, dizziness, swelling behind the ear, or if the complaints are in a small child. These signs may point to an infection or another condition needing examination.
Commonly used active ingredients
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Frequently asked questions
How do I relieve earache at home?
Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen according to the leaflet and a warm compress on the outside of the ear help. These measures ease the symptom but do not treat the cause. For severe or persistent pain, fever or discharge from the ear, see a doctor.
Are cotton buds safe?
Not for cleaning inside the canal — cotton buds push wax deeper and risk injuring the canal or eardrum. The outer part of the ear can be dried with a towel, but the canal cleans itself. For a blockage, use suitable drops or see a doctor.
How do I safely remove earwax?
For a blockage, there are over-the-counter drops or sprays that soften the wax so it comes out more easily. Follow the instructions in the leaflet. For a persistent blockage, pain or a suspected burst eardrum, do not put anything in and see a doctor for safe cleaning.
Is earache always an infection?
No. Earache can be due to an infection, but also to a wax blockage, pressure changes, jaw problems or even pain 'referred' from the throat or teeth. So for severe or persistent pain it is good to have the cause clarified by a doctor.
When is earache an emergency?
Concerning are severe pain, a high fever, discharge of pus, sudden hearing loss, dizziness, or swelling and redness behind the ear. With these signs, and with small children in severe pain, see a doctor promptly.