Ear Wax Microsuction
What is earwax?
Naturally produced in the ear canal, earwax moisturises and protects them from dust, germs, irritation and even insects. Most people don’t need to remove it because our ears are ‘self cleaning’ – earwax moves from part way down the canal to the outside of your ear naturally.
Some people can have problems with excess earwax, or it may get stuck in their ears. In these cases, people can suffer from discomfort or reduced hearing and can benefit from having the earwax removed. The Orchard Clinics earwax removal service is a safe, effective way of sorting these issues.
What is ear microsuction?
Microsuction is one of the best ways to remove earwax. Once our trained advisers have assessed your ear canal, they’ll use a gentle suction device to remove any earwax blockages.
This suction device acts like a vacuum cleaner, helping to loosen and remove any impacted earwax. Once the procedure is over, we’ll use a microscope to check over your ears.
Previously, using an ear syringe with water was a common way to get rid of earwax, however microsuction is a quick and much safer method.
It’s important to be sure that any symptoms you have are caused by earwax and not an infection or other problem, as this service is designed for those suffering with excessive earwax. People who commonly need ear wax removal are:
- Users of in ear headphones
- Users of hearing aids
- Regular cotton bud users
- People who use ear plugs regularly
If this is the first time you’re experiencing these symptoms, you have other symptoms or you’re just not sure, you should first see a GP to check you need this service.
Ear irrigation involves using water, saline, or oil to clear out extra wax in your ear. While it’s generally a safe process, it’s not uncommon to experience some dizziness and other symptoms afterward.
The ear naturally secretes wax to protect and lubricate the ear as well as to keep debris out and hinder bacterial growth. Under normal conditions, the body keeps the amount of earwax in the ears under control. Too much earwax or hardened earwax can cause a blockage in the ear, resulting in earaches, ringing in the ears, or temporary hearing loss.
Purpose of ear irrigation
The ear, especially the canal and eardrum, is very sensitive. Earwax buildup can cause damage to these structures over time. This can affect your hearing. Removing excess earwax with ear irrigation is a safe way to minimize the risk of damage to the ear.
Sometimes foreign materials like food, insects, or small stones can get into the ear. In these cases, the goal is to safely and quickly remove the items before they move deeper into the ear or do damage to the delicate canal. Ear irrigation can be effective in removing foreign materials from the ear.
Ear irrigation process
Before Nurse Kaylee performs ear irrigation, she will look inside your ear to ensure that your symptoms are the result of excess wax buildup or foreign materials and not something more serious.
A diagnosis of excess earwax is made by inserting an instrument called an otoscope into the opening of your ear. The otoscope shines a light into your ear and magnifies the image.
If wax buildup is the issue, Nurse Kaylee can perform Ear Irrigation or Micro-suction, depending on which is more suitable. In Ear Irrigation water or a water and saline mixture is used to flush out the wax. You may feel slight discomfort from the water in your ear or from holding your ear in place.