Signs you may need ear wax removal

Signs you may need ear wax removal

We build up ear wax as a natural defence against bacteria entering our ears. Although this ear wax is supposed to fall naturally many people are prone to ear wax blockages. 

In this blog, we will go through why ear wax build-ups can occur in addition to the symptoms and solutions.

Why does ear wax build-up? 

Although ear wax build-ups are fairly common, we are naturally meant to lose this ear wax ourselves. So why do these blockages occur?

Ear wax is formed inside our ear canal through a mixture of oil, dirt, debris, skin and perspiration. It is slightly acidic and can, therefore, stop bacteria or bugs from entering the inner ear. This is common for everyone, yet, there are slight differences in ears which could make you more susceptible to a blockage. 

If you have lots of hair in your ears you may find that you are more prone to ear wax blockages. This is because the wax will simply stick to the hairs in your ear and build up over time without being able to naturally fall out. Although you could trim the hair in your ears this is quite difficult and the results won’t last for very long since the hair will grow back. 

Another reason for ear wax build-ups could be due to narrow or damaged ear canals. The more narrow the ear canal the easier for the wax to build as it is in a smaller space. This can also make it difficult for the wax to naturally leave the ear as it can easily get stuck. There are surgeries to get your ear canal widened if you have suffered from many ear infections or blockages yet, depending on your age and healthcare, this may not be an easy option. 

Although these are the most common causes of ear wax blockages your age, genetics, diet and environment can all affect your ear wax too. Therefore, it is important to stay healthy and to regulate your food habits as well. We also have a blog on hearing care tips to prevent ear infections, click the link to read more. 

If you are unsure as to whether you may be suffering from a build-up of ear wax you can go through the symptoms down below. 

Symptoms of ear wax blockage

If you are unsure as to whether you have ear wax built up inside your ears there are usually symptoms which will follow, the most common can include:

• Hearing loss is the main symptom of ear wax blockage since it will interfere with the sound waves trying to enter your ear.  
• Vertigo (a feeling of dizziness or sickness) can occur – Our ears our an integral key to our balance. If ear wax is touching the ear drum this can disrupt signals from the ear to the brain causing vertigo. 

• Blockage sensation inside your ear, you may be able to feel something inside your ear interfering with your hearing. 
• Ear irritation can occur as well as a result of the wax built up inside your ear. 

If you have found to be suffering from one or all of these symptoms then we highly recommend you get a hearing test booked this way we can diagnose the problem for sure as there may be a chance you need hearing aids. We have a blog on the most frequent questions about hearing aids, click the link if you want to learn more. 

Microsuction ear wax removal

Within our clinics, microsuction ear wax removal is our preferred method for the procedure. This method is regarded as the most precise and safe way to remove ear wax from the ear. 

A microsuction device is made up of a small vacuum with a precise camera attached to the end. Our audiologist will firstly examine the inside of the affected ear(s) to check if there is definitely a blockage. If no wax is to be found we would personally recommend a hearing test to see where you are struggling with your hearing and to find another solution to your hearing loss. 

If ear wax is found inside the ear(s) then our audiologist will proceed with using the microsuction device on the client. The client is awake during the procedure, but there is a guarantee of no pain. This is because our audiologist will be able to navigate your ear canal clearly as the video feed is transmitted to a screen from the microsuction device. Therefore, our audiologist will be able to clearly view the ear wax and avoid contact with the skin. However, even if the device comes into contact with the skin it is still painless as there is only a light suction. The client will feel a tickling sensation at most. If there is any discomfort at all please let our audiologist know and they will adjust accordingly to where you feel comfortable. 

If you believe you are suffering from a blockage of ear wax we recommend you book a microsuction ear wax removal as soon as possible. This is because after a prolonged period of time the ear wax can begin to cause other health problems for you which can include; 

• Permanent hearing loss; if the ear wax begins disrupting the eardrum there is a chance of a permanent loss of hearing. 
• Pain inside the ear; after a drawn-out period of time ear wax, can cause irritation inside the ear against the skin. In addition to causing ear infections which can also worsen over time and cause further damage including permanent hearing loss. 
• Dizziness; as previously mentioned your ears are crucial for maintaining balance. If the ear wax is built up to a point where the eardrum is being affected then this can cause loss of balance and dizziness. This can be dangerous as there is a chance you may fall and hurt yourself. 

Consequently, it is essential to get your ears checked if you believe to be suffering from an ear wax blockage, as there are many negative effects which can arise from leaving the issue for an extensive amount of time. If you would like to book an appointment with us today, click the link or call us at 0800 781 0422.