Earwax Removal
What is Earwax Removal?
Earwax removal, also known as cerumen management, is the removal of excessive earwax that can build up over time. Normally, earwax is a good thing because it naturally protects your ear. However, in some cases your body can produce too much of it to the point that you may not be able to hear as well as you should.
Microsuction
CURETTAGE
Impacted earwax
What is impacted earwax?
Impacted earwax happens when you have too much of it. When it starts to partially or completely block your ear canal, it is considered impacted.
Objects placed in your ear can also lead to a blockage, especially if done repeatedly.
Having impacted earwax can cause a number of symptoms and issues with your ears and hearing. It can also prevent a full exam of the ear. If you have too much ear wax at the time of your hearing test you may be asked to visit your doctor if the clinic doesn't perform the earwax removal service.
Causes of earwax bockage
What causes earwax blockage?
Most people have a small amount of earwax that regularly makes its way to the opening of the ear. If you have excessive earwax, it may build up and block your ear canal. Earwax can get pushed deep within the ear canal if you use a cotton swab.
You're also more likely to have wax buildup if you frequently use earphones. They can inadvertently prevent ear wax from coming out of the ear canals and cause blockages.
Symptoms of earwax blockage
What are symptoms of a blockage?
Symptoms of earwax blockage
Symptoms Of Earwax Blockage
Earache or fullness in the ear
Itching of the ear
Ringing or noises in the ear (tinnitus)
Hearing loss that may continue to worsen
Dizziness
Discharge or odour coming from the ear
Why Does Earwax Buildup?
Dos
- Seek medical attention if you experience ear pain, drainage, bleeding, hearing changes, an odor coming from the ear or other noticeable change
- Seek medical help if you have symptoms of hearing loss, ear fullness and ear pain
Don'ts
Use cotton swabs and harsh liquids - this can make the problem worse, even going so far as to push the excess wax further into the canal- Over-clean your ears, which may irritate the ear canal, cause infection, and even increase impacted wax
- Use 'candling' methods, which does not remove impacted earwax and can cause serious damage to the ear canal and eardrum
- Put any objects that are small in your ear, such as cotton swabs, hair pins, car keys, or toothpicks to try and clean your ears, as all of these can cause injury to the delicate ear canal, including a cut or dislocation of the tiny bones in the ear
