What is ear wax?
Wax is an important and natural secretion found in the ear. It keeps the ear canal lubricated and protects the ear against dust, dirt and bacteria, which helps to prevent infection. Wax, or cerumen as it is also known, is composed of epithelium (skin cells), dust and oily secretions from the sebaceous and ceruminous glands in the ear canal. These secretions lubricate the ear canal and prevent it becoming too dry. The composition of wax varies from individual to individual depending on diet, age and environment.
What should you do about ear wax build up?
If wax is not causing any problems, it is best left alone. The ear is self-cleaning and the wax should clear naturally, so it is unnecessary to try to remove the wax yourself. If wax is noticed on the outer ear, a wipe with a clean flannel may be all that is needed. Sometimes, however, wax may build up, particularly if it is very dry or if the person has a narrow or hairy ear canal. Wax may also build up if it has been pushed down the canal by cotton buds, hearing aids, hair clips or other implements. Cotton buds can also irritate the ear canal, stripping it of its natural oils and causing it to feel itchy. When water gets into the ear during swimming or showering this may cause the wax to expand, giving a sensation of ‘blockage’ in the ear and increasing the perception of tinnitus. If wax build up is causing deafness, problems with hearing aids, or is uncomfortable, it may need to be removed. Some people with tinnitus feel that their tinnitus is more troublesome when their ears are full of wax.
How can you treat ear wax at home?
If you have any pain in your ears, or any discharge from them, do not attempt any treatment at home, but see your GP.
Many people find that olive oil is easily available, comfortable to use and does not need to be warmed before use. Two or three drops, twice a day for one to two weeks is usually sufficient, and the wax will often then come out by itself. When introducing drops into the ear, it is best to use a dropper or readily available olive oil spray (EAROL) and lay with your head on one side for a couple of minutes to allow the drops to move along the ear canal. After this period, tissue may be used to soak up any excess from the outside of the ear. Some people find it easiest to instil the ear drops when they are in bed, first thing in the morning and last thing at night.
If you often get a build-up of ear wax, using a couple of drops of olive oil once a week may help prevent the build-up.
What clinical methods are used to remove ear wax?
What is microsuction?
Microsuction is the process of removing wax from your ears by using a small suction tube and probe to gently remove any excess wax in the ear.
To summarise:
Wax is a natural secretion and if it is not a problem it is best left alone,
Do not use cotton buds, hair grips, a pencil or other items to try to remove the wax,
Consider ear wax softening drops or olive oil as the first option unless you are
Visit a clinician who will advise whether wax removal is necessary and what type of procedure is most appropriate for you depending on your medical history.
Earwax microsuction is available at the VITALUXE Health Clinic. It is carried out by an experienced ENT (Ears, Nose & Throat) Nurse Practitioner who will examine your ears before carrying out the treatment.
Irrigation
One of the most frequent ways to remove wax in is by ear irrigation, or syringing as it is commonly known. This procedure cannot be carried out if the person has had any ear surgery, recent infections or a perforation of the ear drum. It is also not advisable to carry out the procedure if the patient has any dizziness problems or very troublesome tinnitus. During this procedure, the person sits in a chair and the ear is rinsed with warm water from an electronic irrigator. The wax and water is collected in a cup-shaped receiver which the patient holds under their ear. In the past clinicians used a large metal syringe; however the new electronic irrigators, which have controlled pressures, are gentler and safer. Ear syringing does make some noise but this is not excessive or uncomfortable. Most people who have irrigation find it to be a fairly pleasant procedure. However, the new NICE guidelines no longer recommend this procedure and microsuction is now the preferred safe method of removal of earwax.
Before the appointment
Prior to your appointment, it is advisable to use wax softening drops or olive oil to help soften the wax before removal. Ideally they should be used every day for a week beforehand because, although a few days’ usage is often adequate, the longer drops are used for then the more easily and comfortably the wax can be removed in your appointment.
Hearing loss? Blocked ears? Ringing ears? Itchy or sore ears? Muffled hearing? Earache?
It could be just wax. We also offer a bespoke service that lets us visit you at your convenience. For further information please call 01329 448 677 or simply book online.
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The VITALUXE team
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