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77 Upper Clapton, London, E5 9BU
Tel: 07737 041 034
Ear wax removal and cleaning
Microsuction
Microsuction is the most commonly used technique that we are likely to recommend to patients. The procedure is quite simple: a slender nozzle with a miniature vacuum is gently inserted into the ear so that the excess wax can be siphoned out. The entire process shouldn’t take too long (often just around 15 minutes!) and once the wax is dislodged, we will remove it with either the vacuum itself, a small pair of forceps or a Jobson Horne. Pain and discomfort relief is instant once the blockage is cleared.
Water irrigation
Water irrigation is another method of wax removal used on patients – though, we often find that microsuction is the only form of wax removal needed for most patients we see. Based upon traditional ear syringing, water irrigation consists of a jet of water being used to flush wax, debris and foreign bodies out of the ear canal. Once called "water syringing", ear irrigation is far more precise and aims for the wall of the ear canal, reducing any risk associated by applying pressure to the eardrum.
Manual wax removal
Manual earwax removal is the combined use of a Jobson Horne (a specialised tool that is part curette, part cotton holder) and a pair of forceps (a delicate pair of scissor-like tongs). We would use this method to expertly remove any obvious or visible built-up earwax from within your ear, to ensure it does not travel further into the ear canal. It is also commonly used to remove any foreign bodies that may have ended up in the ear - unfortunately often seen with young children and their toys!
Why do we have ear wax and what is it for?
Cerumen (or ear wax) – is actually required to help prevent dust and dirt from entering our ears. It’s a natural substance which protects the delicate lining of the ear canal and provides a line of defence against bacteria, fungal infections and water. Sometimes our ears produce too much wax and this can cause discomfort and sometimes pain. By having wax carefully and correctly removed by a professional, you can ensure that your ear canal is protected and take steps to improve your hearing.
What happens when ear wax is impacted?
When we have excessive amounts of ear wax it can have an affect on our hearing, but in a large amount of cases it can cause ear pain, itchiness, and sometimes, dizziness. Unfortunately If left untreated people may experience hearing loss and it can take more treatment and time to remove the build up of wax that has formed.
Impacted ear wax may improve on its own and hearing usually returns completely after impacted earwax is removed. Trying to remove impacted wax on your own may cause more harm then good. Neither cotton buds or ear candling is recommended for ear wax removal, as this may push the ear wax further into the ear canal causing even more blockage and pain.
Although it can feel embarrassing and you might think it would be painful, professional ear wax remove is simple, fast and pain free so always the safest option to solve any pain you might have.
Why does this happen?
There are many reasons why a person may produce a lot of ear wax, that can be linked to menopause / pregnancy / stress or you could just be susceptible to producing more wax than most. Ear wax is completely normal and the good news is that any discomfort caused, can be very easily solved!