Blocked Ears No More: Ear Wax Removal Explained
Ear wax (also known as cerumen) is produced by the body to help protect your ears and keep them healthy. This naturally occurring substance is secreted by glands to stop dust, debris and bacteria from channelling deeper.
It’s part of the self-cleaning process of the ear to stop it becoming infected, dry or irritated.
As is often the case, it’s possible to have too much of a good thing. A build-up of ear wax can be unpleasant and can cause hearing issues, which is when you should consider getting ear wax removal.
Do you have too much ear wax?
Before we get into how to remove ear wax, it’s helpful to know which symptoms indicate excessive amounts. You might find yourself experiencing:
- muffled hearing
- a feeling of fullness or higher pressure
- an itchy or uncomfortable feeling
- your hearing aids are not as effective
- your balance being affected (dizziness)
It’s important to note that the wax normally makes its own way out, but some people are more susceptible to build-up. Ear wax removal seems like a simple enough task at the outset; however DIY methods are actually culprits for worsening the situation.
Not a DIY job
The safest and best ear wax removal methods are all conducted by professionals.
Using cotton buds might feel satisfying, but it pushes the wax deeper into your canal. This can cause “impaction” – essentially an ear wax blockage. You also run the risk of damaging your ear drum.
You might find ear candles pop up in your research. Unfortunately, the science doesn’t support this method, and it can potentially cause injuries—another one to avoid.
Using ear syringes is a legitimate method but it can cause infection and damage when used improperly.
Leave it to the professionals
Here at Harrold Opticians, we have several options that are carried out by fully qualified Audiologists. We use:
- microsuction ear wax removal to carefully remove wax using a gentle suction device – it is one of the best methods currently available and works brilliantly for those with hearing aids in particular.
- irrigation tools that employ a flow of warm water to soften and flush out the build-up – suitable for almost everyone.
- specialised implements for manual removal – usually reserved for when other techniques aren’t effective.
Whichever method is used, it’s a swift, pain-free experience, which will benefit you immediately.
Is it worth it?
Simply put, yes. The difference it will make is remarkable.
Because our audiologists are highly qualified and experienced, you can be confident that the best care and best clinical practices are being used to give your ears the treatment they deserve.
A simple solution
Professional ear wax removal is a fantastic, pain-free way to remedy a multitude of issues caused by build-up.
If you think you might have excessive ear wax, get in touch with the team at Harrold Opticians today and we’ll see how we can help you tune up your hearing!
