Cerumen Removal
Earwax Removal: Keeping Your Ears Clear
Earwax, also known as cerumen, plays a crucial role in keeping our ears healthy by protecting the ear canal from dust and debris. Under normal circumstances, the ear is self-cleaning, and ear wax naturally moves out of the ears. But sometimes earwax accumulates, leading to blockages in the ear canal.
If you use hearing aids or earmolds, you might experience more earwax accumulation since these devices can prevent earwax from naturally drying out and working its way out of the ear canals.
Signs of Earwax Buildup
Blockages caused by earwax can show up as various uncomfortable symptoms, such as persistent earaches, tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears), reduced or muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, and occasional dizziness, especially during position changes. Addressing these symptoms promptly is important to prevent further discomfort and potential hearing issues.
At-Home Earwax Removal
For mild blockages, at-home earwax removal kits can be used. You can buy these kits over the counter as recommended by your healthcare professional. These kits include a liquid solution to soften earwax and a rubber bulb syringe for irrigation.
The process involves applying the solution to the ear canals as directed, allowing it to soften the earwax, and then gently irrigating the ears with warm water using the bulb syringe. While this method is generally safe, it’s important to consult a professional when in doubt about at-home cleaning.
Earwax Removal Methods to Avoid
Did you know that using cotton swabs or Q-tips to clean the ear can be harmful? Using cotton swabs can potentially push earwax deeper into the ear, worsening blockages, or even causing damage. Q-tips can sometimes damage the walls of the ear canal or the ear drum. Healthcare professionals typically advise against using cotton swabs or any foreign objects for earwax removal within the ear canal. You can use these products to clean the outer ear, but it’s best to avoid putting anything in your ear canal.
Professional Earwax Removal
For significant or stubborn blockages, we’ve got you covered. We have two common methods for earwax removal:
Irrigation:
One of the most common earwax removal treatments is irrigation. This is similar to an at-home kit but works for more impacted earwax. Professionals often use more potent earwax removal medications along with irrigation to dislodge blockages and remove earwax safely.
Curettage:
In cases where irrigation might not be effective, we use a curettage to remove earwax. We’ll use a long, curved tool and suction to safely remove earwax from the ear canal.
Professional Consultation
If you think you have earwax blockage or are experiencing discomfort, visit us for a professional consultation. Professional earwax removal can alleviate symptoms and maintain healthy ear canals. Opting for safe and professional ear care can help you maintain healthy ears and healthy hearing.
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