and are labeled '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, there may hear some fizzing as a result of the reaction with the earwax. Drops should be used according to the package instructions (typically recommended maximum of 4 days) or as directed by a healthcare provider. If the blockage has worsened or not improved, consult a doctor. Another method to break up earwax is by using body temperature water. While having the head upright, straighten the ear canal by gently pulling the upper outer ear back and up. Then use a syringe (do not use jet irrigator that is designed for teeth cleaning) to aim a small gently stream of water at the ear canal wall next to the ear wax to be removed. Next, tilt the head to allow water to drain and repeat if necessary. After removing the ear wax, allow the ear to dry thoroughly. Adding a few drops of alcohol in the ear may help to dry the ear. Do not use irrigation or ear drops if there is a hole in the ear drum or had recent ear surgery to prevent damage or infection in the ears. Prevent or treat otitis externa Otitis externa, also known as swimmer's ear, is an inflammation (infectious or non-infectious) of the external auditory canal. Risk factors include retained water in the outer ear, particularly due to swimming, humidity, trauma or external devices, dermatologic conditions, or scratching the ear canal that may lead to bacterial growth. Otitis externa can generally be prevented by keeping the ear canal dry and/or applying ear drops labeled for swimmer's ear (typically a dilution of isopropyl and glycerin) after exposure to water to assist with keeping the ear canal dry. Treatment of otitis externa is centered around antibiotic ear drops and pain control (e.g. acetaminophen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and opioids including oxycodone or hydrocodone). Antibiotic ear drops are generally safe and well-tolerated. Some studies have demonstrated that the addition of topical steroids to antibiotic ear drops provides quicker pain relief, but these results are conflicting. Symptoms of uncomplicated otitis externa typically improve within 48 hours of initiating antibiotics. If pain does not improve within 48 to 72 hours of antibiotic therapy, individuals should consult their provider to confirm the