What is ear wax?
Ear wax, or cerumen, is a normal, naturally occurring substance that helps your ear stay healthy. It is produced naturally by glands in the ear canal. It protects your sensitive ear canal from things like bacteria and debris that can cause infections.
Ear wax can vary in colour, in shades of yellow, white, brown, and even black. It can be soft, hard, or flaky. Blockages can occur when your body produces too much wax or when existing wax is pushed too far into your ear canal. This is when ear wax removal can help.
Why are my ears blocked?
- You use cotton buds to clean your ears
- You have naturally narrow ear canals
- You use hearing aids, ear plugs or headphones
- If you are elderly, your ears may get more blocked more easily
- Some people just produce too much!
Can I remove my own ear wax?
Your body naturally cleans your ears which means that some people do not require any treatment. Crucially, if you are experiencing excess wax production with its associated concerns, it is very important that you don’t try to deal with it yourself.
Surely cotton buds are ok to use?
It is very easy to damage the delicate skin in your ear and although they may seem soft to the touch, ear buds, when inserted into the ear, have a lot of potential for damage. If you push one into your ear too hard then you could can easily graze the skin and make it sore. In extreme cases, you could even instantly perforate your eardrum. This would not only be incredibly painful, but could significantly affect your hearing too.
Should I have my ear wax removal before I have a hearing test?
Firstly, an ear wax removal treatment is not always required before a hearing test. This is because a small amount of wax in the ears is perfectly normal. However, if you feel you have a build up of wax, it might well be worth having the treatment first. Most importantly, you should wait at least one week before taking a hearing test after your treatment. This allows for a follow-up appointment if necessary. Please ask for further information if you’re not sure.
What about before flying?
If your ears feel full and blocked, flying may make them feel worse. If your ears are completely blocked, pressure equalisation between the outer and middle ears cannot take place. (This is the popping sensation you may have experienced on a flight). Although many people fly without any issues, if you are worried, please contact me for advice.
What some of my customers say
“This is a great treatment and the mobile visits that Michelle offers make it so much easier for me as I am unable to drive now. Thanks, as always.”
John P
“I had been suffering with tinnitus and painful ears for months and had tried a few other things, but nothing worked. When a friend recommended Clear Ear East, I gave it a try and I wish I had known about the clinic earlier.”
Dorothy K
“Fantastic service and competitive pricing. The process was explained in great detail and was not painful at all. I can hear again now!“
Jon G.
“Michelle has been helping me with my ear wax problems for several years and each time I feel such instant relief. It’s very comfortable and Michelle is such a kind and caring person.”
Evelyn B
“I would thoroughly recommend Michelle for ear wax removal. She was very efficient and professional.”
Bernie M.
“I just wanted to thank you for giving me my husband John back! Since the wax removal, he has been a different man. He is always very positive but the deafness was beginning to depress him. I have been singing your praises.”
Janice
Frequently asked questions
Can my NHS GP remove ear wax?
The NHS does not routinely provide the option of ear wax removal any longer, one reason why private practice has become so popular.
Does the treatment hurt?
No, most patients report that the methods I use are comfortable and not painful. Having said this, if you experience any discomfort during the treatment, please do let me know.
Will ear wax removal help with my hearing?
A clean ear canal can make a world of difference to your hearing. In fact, experts estimate that removing wax can improve hearing by as much as 10 decibels. (The difference between whispering and normal conversation is around 20 decibels.)
My ears are really itchy. Will this treatment help?
A build up of wax and dry skin can often cause ears to feel itchy, therefore the treatment can improve discomfort and feeling the need to scratch.
Is this a good treatment to have after swimming as my ears always feel blocked?
The water pressure of jumping into the pool can push a plug of ear wax further into the ear canal making the ear feel blocked. Additionally, the water pressure can cause water to get trapped behind a plug of ear wax making an infection more likely. Preventing this requires regular removal of ear wax.
What is the youngest age my child can have the treatment?
My insurance covers ear wax removal for children between the ages of 10 and 18. It is important to note that children must be able to sit still while the treatment takes place. Anyone under 18 years of age must have a parent or guardian present at all times.
Could my jaw pain be associated with excess wax in my ears?
If you have a build up of hardened ear wax, you are more likely to suffer with an infection. This may spread to the sinuses, with the pain potentially radiating to your head, teeth, and even your jaw. This is why impacted ear wax should be prevented with regular ear wax removal treatments.
Is there anything I should do before my appointment?
I recommend using the olive oil spray, Earol® before your treatment. Chiefly, this should help soften hardened wax and as a result, you should find the treatment even more comfortable.
Aftercare advice
