Personal Wax Management
However, wax can sometimes build up making it difficult for the ear to self-clean. Wax will commonly build up in those with narrow ear canals, hearing aid and ear plug users and can become more bothersome as we age. These factors can stop the wax working its way to the outer ear, causing it to gradually accumulate.
For hearing aid users, this build-up can prevent the amplified sound reaching the eardrum, or may cause the aid to whistle (feedback).
Our method of wax removal is ideal for anyone with a history of eardrum perforation, middle ear problems, previous ear surgery or discomfort with the syringing method.
Our Personal Wax Management Tips
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Buy wax softening drops or spray from Helix Hearing or your chemist*
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Once a month, put 2-3 drops in each ear canal at night (according to instructions on bottle).
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Wash your hair as usual the next morning, flushing out the ear canals.
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Use a twist of tissue to “wick” each canal dry and to soak up any remaining dissolved wax. (Don’t use cotton buds!)
If any problems continue to occur, contact Helix Hearing for a specialist wax removal treatment
*Please check which types of “Ear Clear” you purchase as there are several types and some not compatible with certain illnesses.
Reach Out To Professionals At Helix Hearing For Convenient Ear Wax Removal
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a natural secretion of the ear canal. This sticky secretion acts as a protective barrier which traps dust, microorganisms, and other foreign particles which may harm your ear and affect your sense of listening. This ear wax also prevents the ear canal from becoming too dry and has antibacterial properties that help prevent infections from water. Normally, ear wax migrates out of the ear canal on its own due to jaw movements such as chewing and talking. But in some cases, this self-cleaning mechanism may not work properly due to various reasons listed below.
Reasons of Excessive Ear Wax Build-up In The Ear:
- Natural Overproduction: In some individuals it has been noticed that their ears produce more ear wax due to genetic factors. The glands in their ears are more active, leading to increased wax production.
- Ear Canal Shape: Just like each individual is different, their ear canal anatomy varies as well leading to wax buildup. Narrow or curvy ear canals in some individuals can make it difficult for ear wax to fall out naturally, leading to accumulation.
- Use of Hearing Aids or Earplugs: Regular use of hearing aids, earplugs, or earbuds can push ear wax deeper into the ear canal, where it can compact and form a blockage.
- Wrong Cleaning Habits: Even today, there are a lot of people who use cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ears, which often pushes wax further into the canal instead of removing it, leading to unwanted accumulation of earwax in the canal.
- Old Age: As people get older, the consistency of ear wax tends to change. Due to this, the ear wax becomes drier and the process of natural expulsion becomes difficult. Also, older adults are more prone to ear wax buildup.
- Medical Conditions: In certain skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis, the skin inside the ear canal can get adversely affected, leading to increased production of ear wax.
Professional Methods At Helix Hearing For Ear Wax Removal
When there’s excessive buildup of earwax that doesn’t flush out naturally, it is always advisable to check with a professional. Professional treatment of excessive wax build up ensures safe and comforting removal of excessive ear wax. Below are some professional earwax removal techniques used at Helix Hearing offers:
- Irrigation: In this method, a syringe-like device is used to gently squirt a stream of warm water or saline solution into the ear canal. The fluid helps to loosen and flush out the ear wax. Irrigation is generally a safe and effective method of ear wax removal. Our highly trained and experienced Audiologist performs this task carefully and with great finesse to offer you utmost comfort during the procedure.
- Microsuction: This is one of the most popular methods at Helix Hearing. During this procedure a small vacuum device is used to remove ear wax under direct visual guidance with a microscope. It is precise and typically more comfortable for patients.
- Curettage: In this technique a small, curved instrument called a curette is used to manually remove ear wax. The procedure is performed under direct visualisation, often using an otoscope. This technique is especially used for removal of hard or impacted wax.
- Ear Drops: At Helix Hearing, we provide you with ear wax softening drops to soften ear wax, making it easier to remove. These drops are sometimes used in conjunction with other removal methods for best results.
- Endoscopic Ear Wax Removal: In certain cases, At Helix Hearing, we use a small camera (endoscope) which allows our professionals to directly visualise the ear canal and precisely remove ear wax. This procedure enhances accuracy and reduces the risk of injury in the ear.
- Digital Otoscopes: At Helix Hearing, we use high-resolution digital otoscopes to get a clear view of the ear canal, which aids in accurate diagnosis and treatment of your ear. Our healthcare professionals often use it in conjunction with other earwax removal techniques, as and when required.
Here listed Are Signs and Symptoms of Excessive Ear Wax Buildup
If you are facing any of the issues listed below, contact Helix Hearing for professional help for timely intervention:
- Earache: If you are facing pain in the ear, this can be due to the pressure of wax against the eardrum or ear canal walls. We understand that ear pain can get nasty and might hamper your daily life. So, it is best to seek professional help for ear wax removal to avoid any further issue.
- Hearing Loss: Sometimes excessive wax buildup can lead to blockage of sound waves from reaching the eardrum, leading to reduced hearing ability.
- Tinnitus: Some people often experience ringing, buzzing, or other noises in their ears, which could be a result of ear wax pressing against the eardrum.
- Itching: If you are facing persistent itchiness in the ear canal, this could be a common symptom of wax buildup that needs ear cleaning.
- Dizziness: In severe cases, excessive ear wax buildup can affect the balance organs in the inner ear, leading to dizziness or vertigo. It is highly recommended that such individuals immediately visit our centre at Melbourne for ear wax removal.
- Odour and Discharge: Some individuals experience an unpleasant smell or discharge from the ear, which can indicate an ear wax blockage, especially if an infection is present in the ear.
Get The Best Ear Wax Removal Done In Melbourne From Professionals
At Helix Hearing, we understand that though presence of ear wax in the ear canal plays a crucial role in maintaining ear health, excessive buildup can lead to discomfort and hearing issues. Excessive ear wax buildup can greatly affect your daily life in case you experience pain, loss of hearing, discharge or an ear infection. Going for professional ear wax removal methods, including irrigation, microsuction, and curettage are safe and effective solutions to your excessive ear wax issues. So, avoid improper ear wax removal techniques like using cotton swabs, ear candling, home remedies or using sharp objects to clean your ear to prevent damage. Instead, if you experience symptoms of excessive ear wax, seek professional help at Helix Hearing for ear cleaning as the best course of action.
FAQ
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a waxy substance produced by the glands in the ear canal. It is a natural part of the ear’s self-cleaning mechanism.
Symptoms of wax build-up in the ears can include earache, hearing loss or muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness in the ear, ringing or tinnitus, dizziness, and ear infections. Some individuals may also experience itching, discharge, or a persistent cough due to the presence of excess earwax.
Several risk factors can contribute to earwax blockage. These include frequent use of earphones or hearing aids, the production of excessive or dry earwax, narrow or twisted ear canals, older age (as earwax becomes drier and harder to remove), and certain activities that introduce foreign objects into the ear, such as using cotton swabs or inserting small objects.
Ear wax blockage is usually diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and, if necessary, additional tests. A healthcare professional such as an Audiologist, can examine your ears using an otoscope, a handheld instrument with a light. They will look for signs of ear wax blockage, such as visible wax or obstruction of the ear canal. In some cases, they may recommend additional tests, such as a tympanometry or audiometry, to assess the function of the middle ear and hearing.
Preferred treatment from Audiologists includes Microsuction where the Audiologist will use a gentle suction device to remove the ear wax. This method is especially useful for individuals with sensitive ears or those who have had previous ear surgeries.
Treatment for ear wax build-up typically involves methods to remove or soften the wax. Our Audiologists preferred treatment options are:
- Over-the-counter ear drops: Ear drops, such as carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide solutions, can be used to soften the wax and facilitate its removal. Follow the instructions provided with the ear drops and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
- Manual removal: Healthcare professionals, such as doctors or ENT specialists, may use specialized instruments like curettes or suction devices to manually remove the ear wax. This method should not be attempted at home, as improper techniques or tools can damage the ear canal or eardrum.
- Microsuction: This procedure involves using a suction device to remove the ear wax. It is commonly performed by healthcare professionals and is effective for removing stubborn or impacted wax.
It’s important to note that if you experience severe pain, sudden hearing loss, persistent symptoms, or have a history of ear problems, it is recommended to seek medical attention from an Audiologist for proper evaluation and treatment.
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