Is there anything I can try at home to clear my ears first?

You should avoid using cotton buds or home ear-cleaning devices, as these can push wax deeper, scratch the ear canal, or damage the eardrum. If your specialist advises it, you may use softening drops from a pharmacy to help loosen wax, but this isn’t suitable for everyone — especially if you have ear pain, discharge, or a history of eardrum problems. If you’re unsure, it’s best to ask an ENT specialist before trying anything at home.