FAQs
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What is ear wax?
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Ear wax or cerumen, is a mixture of dead skin cells - keratin, hair, and secretions from sebaceous glands in the outer ear. The type and amount of ear wax each person produces is genetically determined. Its main function is to protect and lubricate the ears. It does this by acting as a barrier against dust, dirt and bacteria. In most cases the wax falls away on its own with washing. However, some things prevent this from happening, these are:
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Physical obstruction: caused by cotton buds or hair pins or other objects, used to “clean” them with, these only push the wax, further down the canal. ​
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Devices: Hearing aids, ear plugs, ear phones can trap wax and trigger increased ear production of wax.
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Anatomy: Some people have naturally narrow or hairy ears, making them more prone to buildup
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Skin conditions: Eczema and psoriasis inside the canal can increase skin shedding, which leads to more wax production
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Age: Older adults are more likely to produce drier and harder wax that doesn’t fall out naturally.
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What are the symptoms of ear wax build up?
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The most common symptoms of ear wax buildup are:
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Hearing loss, earache, feeling that your ears are blocked, Tinnitus (ringing in your ears) vertigo (dizziness).
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Can ear wax removal improve my hearing?
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Yes, most people experience a significant improvement in their hearing following wax removal.
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Should I have ear wax removed prior to my hearing test?
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Yes, having the wax removed prior to your hearing test will improve the quality of your test.​
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What to expect...
What to expect at my appointment?
Initially I will look into your ear with a small camera to check for wax. You will be able to see the inside of your ear via an ipad. Next a consent form is completed, which will ask questions regarding your general health. For, example, your sympotms – balance issues, pain, underlying infection, if you are on any blood thinners or are immunocompromised – diabetes, cancer, MRSA etc. Once you
have consented to the procedure, I will explain a little about what I am going to do and if you have any questions.
How long does the procedure last?
The procedure can last from a few minutes per ear, to the maxium time of 15 minutes per ear. If the wax is not removed during this 15 minutes, which can be due to stuborn impacted wax, then I would advise a follow up appointment after a period of time. Usually a week to review, following the application of more oil.
Will I feel pain during ear wax removal?
Majority of people undergo microsuction without any pain or discomfort. The procedure involves a small probe that acts like a tiny hoover which sucks out the wax in the ear - microsuction.
Some people however may experience minor discomfort or an unusual sensation due to the removal – this can occur if the wax is impacted .
How should I prepare for my appointment?
I advice people to use olive oil from their local pharmacy 5-7 days prior to their appointment.
Althought this is not absolutely necessary, it does help to reduce any discomfort if you have stubborn ear wax, impacted wax or very hairy ears. However, somtimes, the appointment can still go ahead without this.
Can I arrange for a home visit?
No, unfortunately I do not provide this.
Can I get ear wax removal if I am pregnant?
Yes – there are no contraindications associated to microsuction during pregancy. It is a good idea to let me know however to make your appointment more comfortable.
Do I treat Children?
No, although children are able to have microsuction. I do not provide this service to anyone under the age of 16 years of age and would advise any child with hearing issues to see their GP.
If I don’t have ear wax, will I still be charged for the appointment?
Yes, even if no ear wax is found during your appointment, a standard ear health check is provided which costs £10. Any advice will be recommended during this time.
Aftercare Advice...
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If the procedure resulted in broken skin in the ear canal, I will advice you to keep ears dry for 3 days, and not swim or submerge your head under water for 7 days.
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Irrigation - Your ear canal may be vulnerable to infection following this treatment, until the ear produces more wax to protect itself. So, it is important to keep your ears dry for a minimum of 3 days and avoid submerging your head under water for 7 days.
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For patietns who use hearing devices, leave 3 hours post procedure before re-fitting the device.
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How often should I have my ears cleaned? Each person is different and the answer greatly depends on the individuals circumstances, for example if they have troublesome wax caused by oddly shaped canals or wearing hearing aids.
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People wearing hearing aids or regular ear plugs may need their ears cleaned every three months. However, majority of the people I see tend to have either a six or twelve monthly ear checks, followed by wax removal.
