MODEL RELEASED. Eardrops. Young woman using eardrops. These are commonly used to treat a bacterial or viral infection of the outer-ear canal, also known as the otitis externa. Such infections cause earache and may be accompanied by irritation in the ear canal, discharge and a slight hearing loss. Eardrops consisting of an oil preparation may also be used to soften earwax which sometimes builds up and impedes hearing. Once softened, the wax can be removed by a doctor by syringing or suction.