Which treatment approach is commonly used for cerumen impaction?

Manual removal techniques are the standard treatment approach for cerumen impaction because they directly address the physical blockage caused by excessive earwax build-up. This method allows a healthcare professional to safely and effectively remove the impacted cerumen from the ear canal, preventing further complications such as hearing loss, discomfort, or infection. Various tools, such as curettes or suction devices, may be used during this process to ensure thorough removal while minimizing the risk of injury to the delicate structures of the ear.

Other treatment options, such as topical antibiotics, do not target the underlying cause of cerumen impaction and are instead used for treating infections. Radiation therapy is unrelated to this condition and would not be appropriate for managing earwax build-up. Ear drops alone may help soften cerumen but are often insufficient as a standalone treatment for established impaction, as they do not remove the blockage. Manual removal is the most definitive method to relieve the condition effectively.