What Does Blockage In Ear After Ear Irrigation Indicate?

Posted on Fri, 7 Aug 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 7 Aug 2015 Answered on

Thu, 27 Aug 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello. I have a question regarding an ear irrigation I had performed earlier today. The nurse told me after she had finished the procedure that my ears were now free of wax and I was good to go. I checked my ears an hour later (and also got someone else to check them) and they are both completely blocked with something that looks white/cream in colour. I have no idea what it is. My ears don't hurt or itch but they feel a bit blocked still. Please help. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (22 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
probably rest of wax or hydrogen peroxide

Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.

In some cases ear is irrigated with water mixed with hydrogen peroxide and it is whitish so it may be accumulation of hydrogen or this can be rest of wax then moved to the external part of your ears. You can try to shower this part directly with warm water and if it doesnt go, you can visit nurse for irrigation again.

Wish you good health. Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (9 minutes later)

Hi there. I was told to keep it dry for 24 hours. Do you suggest that I follow this advice and only wet with warm water after the 24 hour period? Also, are you providing this answer on the basis of the photos as well? I wasn't sure if the photos attached properly. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
i see photos

Detailed Answer:
Hi. I see photos. You should let it dry as was recommended and then shower it and gently remove wax out.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T