All about earwax - information and tips for you if earwax is a concern
Posted by Eamonn Brady on
Never use cotton buds to try clear earwax
A UK YouGov survey in February 2019 found almost two-thirds of people questions use cotton buds to try to “clean out” their ears. Cotton buds (or any other home instrument) should never be used try to clean out earwax as it pushes earwax further down the ear canal making the problem worse as it causes wax to become compacted which can block the ear meaning hearing may not be a sharp as it should be. Used cotton buds in the ear can bring on ear infections due to the disruption of the earwax. More aggressive use of cotton buds can perforate the eardrum which can lead to potentially permanent hearing loss.
Symptoms of ear wax build up
- Earache
- Difficulty hearing
- Itchiness
- Dizziness
- Ear infection
- Sounds such as high-pitched tones coming from inside the ear (tinnitus)
Earwax clears naturally
The best way to clean your ears and clear earwax is to leave them alone to allow nature to clear earwax naturally. The ear lining pushes earwax out gradually as it grows away from the inside of the ear to the outside. This means earwax falls out naturally, without the need of a cotton bud.
Options if earwax becomes a problem
If there is a buildup of earwax, the likes olive oil drops or other brands of ear wax softeners available in pharmacies will soften the earwax. These may clear the earwax without the need to see someone to get earwax professionally removed. Using wax softening ear drops for 4-5 days will help soften, loosen, and clear earwax in most people.
Microsuction at Whelehans Pharmacy
If earwax is still a problem despite the advice above, microsuction involves an audiologist cleaning the ears using a small instrument that sucks the loosened wax from your ear. It is a safe and non-invasive treatment. Whelehans Pharmacy Pearse St has an audiologist that offers this service. Call 04493 34591 to book. The audiologist will recommend using softening ear drops like olive oil for 4 – 5 days prior to your appointment.
How much does ear wax removal cost?
Microscuction Earwax removal at Whelehans costs €50 for 1 ear, €75 for both ears. It takes 15 to 30 minutes
Is Microsuction earwax removal Suitable for me?
Micrcosuction earwax removal is suitable for most; it is a safe and non-invasive treatment.
Ear Wax Removal at Whelehans Pharmacy Pearse St Mullingar, call 04493 34591 (Whelehans Pearse St) or 01 6978470 (Blackberry Hearing) for more information or to book.