How Can a Doctor Remove Ear Wax?
Earwax doesn’t usually need to be removed as it will make its way out of your ear naturally. However, if the wax gets stuck it can build up and block your ear. You may be able to manage the problem by yourself, but if this doesn’t work you can ask a doctor for help.
When to See a Doctor
Signs that there may be a build-up of wax in your ear include:
- Problems with your hearing in the affected ear
- Earache
- Tinnitus
- Itchiness
- Dizziness or balance problems
- An ear infection could develop in the blocked ear
If there is a lot of wax in your ear then you may be able to treat it yourself. You can buy ear drops from a pharmacy or put a couple of drops of olive oil in your ear twice a day. The ear wax should break up and fall out within a fortnight. However, you should visit the ENT clinic in London if:
- Ear drops aren’t helping or your symptoms haven’t improved after 5 days
- Your symptoms are severe
- The ear is so badly blocked that you can’t hear anything
- You think you have an ear infection
Ear Wax Removal
If it isn’t possible for you to get rid of the earwax with drops then you can have it removed by a doctor at the London ENT clinic. The doctor will usually recommend microsuction:
- A special microscope will be used to get a clear view inside your ear during the procedure
- Microsuction instruments will use a gentle vacuum to suck wax and other material out
- It can feel a bit uncomfortable and you will be able to hear the suction in your ear
- Some people feel a bit dizzy during the procedure
You might be a bit anxious about having your earwax cleared by a doctor if you have had problems after getting your ears syringed in the past. Ear syringing risked harming the eardrum and could cause other problems when there was an infection. However, microsuction is a much safer and gentler procedure than the older technique of ear syringing. If you still have any concerns, you will be able to discuss them with the specialist at the London ENT clinic before you have the treatment.
