Ear wax explained and why it sometimes needs removing

Earwax is a natural substance produced by our ears to keep them clean and protected. Normally, it will work its way out of the ear canal on its own. However, there are instances when an excess amount of earwax can build up and cause blockages in the ears.

This build-up of earwax is a common issue that many people face. Fortunately, there are effective ways to address it. One method involves using olive oil drops to soften the wax before undergoing electronic irrigation microsuction to remove the blockage and restore hearing.

Electronic Irrigation Explained

Electronic irrigation is a safe and comfortable method of earwax removal. Ear wax removal by irrigation has completely replaced ear syringing. The efficacy of ear syringing as a method of ear cleaning is largely questionable; it may lead to more issues than it resolves, and it frequently fails to eliminate ear wax.

Electronic irrigation is safer and more effective because it uses a controlled flow of water. Most people find the process comfortable, and it typically takes about thirty minutes to complete.

The Pros and Cons of Irrigation
Let us discuss the advantages and disadvantages of electronic irrigation. The main issue is that not everyone is suitable for irrigation-based earwax removal. In cases like this, we provide microsuction earwax removal. There are several reasons why the process may not be appropriate:

  • A perforated eardrum, or if you have had one in the previous 12 months.
  • Previously experienced problems with irrigation, such as ear pain or dizziness.
  • If you have had a discharge from your ear or have had an ear infection in the previous few months?
  • Have recurring or persistent infections in your ear canal.
  • Have you had any major ear surgeries?
  • Some people find having water in their ears uncomfortable, but there is no pain. It’s just that the feeling is strange. 
  • For this type of earwax removal, you should use oil in the form of drops or sprays for a few days before the procedure. 
  • The procedure typically takes up to thirty minutes per ear. That depends on how soft the wax is, as well as how much oil you’ve used to soften it. 

Benefits of Irrigation Ear Cleaning 

It is a highly effective method for removing ear wax, as it thoroughly cleans the ear canal and eardrum. Some people find the procedure very relaxing. This type of ear wax removal has several other advantages, including:

  • Safer than syringing. 

Earwax removal via irrigation is a very safe method of ear cleaning. The water is under controlled low pressure, and there is no syringe. 

  • Usually, removal is quick. 

Irrigation and earwax removal are typically quick processes, lasting no more than thirty minutes per  ear. 

  • Irrigation is a highly effective method for removing ear wax. 

It completely cleans your ear, leaving no wax behind.

Microsuction, the gold standard of ear wax removal

Microsuction is a safe and comfortable method of removing ear wax or foreign bodies from our ears. This procedure involves using a microscope and a gentle suction device to carefully remove any blockages from the ear canals.

Unlike other methods like ear syringing, which can sometimes be uncomfortable and and prone to infection, microsuction is considered one of the safest ways to clean our ears. It allows for precise removal without the risk of damaging the delicate structures of the ear.

Micro suction is widely recognised by healthcare professionals as the safest and most comfortable method of earwax removal. The procedure is fuss-free and mess-free because no liquids are used. The fact that the ear canal is monitored throughout the procedure makes it an extremely safe method. It is also a comfortable process that takes only a few minutes.

If you’re experiencing hearing loss, ear pain, or a feeling of fullness in your ears, it might be time to consider microsuction as a solution. Your hearing care professional can provide more information on whether this procedure is suitable for you and how it can help improve your ear health. The procedure takes between 20 – 40 minutes.

The Pros and Cons of Microsuction

Unlike ear syringing or ear irrigation, which flushes out ear wax without revealing the canal, microsuction allows the canal and ear wax to be directly viewed with a microscope while being removed. This makes the procedure much more efficient, safe, and comfortable for the patient. Additional advantages of this type of ear wax removal include:

The Benefits of Microsuction

  • A Good View of the Ear Canal

We have a clear view of the earwax and ear canal. This implies that we can always see what we’re  doing. Making things easier for us and safer for you.

  • Fewer drops.

Microsuction usually eliminates the need for such a large amount of ear drops. Other methods of removal, such as ear syringing or ear irrigation, require large amounts of drops to be applied several times per day for a week in advance. For five days, microsuction only requires two drops twice a day per ear.

  • No messy water was used.

No water is used or flushed into the ear canal, as is the case with ear syringing and irrigation. Instead, the procedure is dry, significantly lowering the risk of infection.

  • Safe for Perforations

Unlike ear syringing and ear irrigation, it is safe for people with a perforated eardrum or mastoid cavity, as well as any foreign object lodged inside the ear canal.

Limitations of Microsuction

There are few limitations or drawbacks to micro-suction earwax removal; however, using microscopes or loupes provides a narrow view. However, this simply means that we must reposition ourselves in order to obtain the desired view. Microsuction ear wax removal is regarded as extremely safe and well-tolerated. However, no treatment for ear wax is completely risk-free. As with other ear wax removal methods, there is a possibility of:

Damage and trauma to the ear canal and eardrum are extremely rare and are usually caused by the customer’s sudden movement.

Micro suction can be noisy due to the suction, but our newer suction pumps are much quieter.

For safe, comfortable, and risk-free ear wax removal, give us a call and have a chat to find out which procedure is suitable for you. Call us now on; Meltham 01484 90 70 90, Marsden 01484 76 88 88, or Saddleworth 01457 353 100. You can also book online at https://allegrooptical.co.uk/book-online-to

AMD and the performing artist

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a degenerative eye disease that can significantly impact the lives and careers of performing artists, particularly musicians. The disease progresses

Read More »