How to remove earwax safely
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Earwax is a natural substance produced by the body to protect the ear canal, and its presence plays a key role in maintaining healthy ear function.
However, with many NHS providers no longer offering ear wax removal many are suffering quietly with discomfort and hearing loss due to a blockage in the ear canal. Although the temptation for some might be to try and remove the wax at home, it’s essential to use the correct methods to avoid damaging the ear canal.
Rob Ormerod, Audiology Director at Bayfields Opticians and Audiologists, provides his expert advice when it comes to tackling a build up of earwax.
1. Some ear wax is a good thing
“Some people produce more earwax than others and people who wear hearing aids, earplugs or in-ear headphones are particularly prone to producing more. It’s also something that can appear more with age. As we get older, our earwax tends to become harder and more uncomfortable, which can cause complications.
“Contrary to popular belief, earwax is actually a good thing. It protects your ear canal and eardrum, keeping them moist and trapping dirt and germs. Many people believe that they should clean their ears every day to prevent build up. However, in most cases, your ears are best left alone as the ear canals will clean themselves naturally and do not require regular cleaning.”
2. Opt for tried and tested methods
“Olive oil is a natural and proven way to help remove stubborn build ups of earwax. Simply add a few drops into your ear each day to soften wax and help it fall out of the ear naturally, avoiding blockages. Over the counter ear cleansing sprays made from sterile water or saline can also be an effective and simple way of rinsing wax out of your ears at home.
“Avoid cleaning your ears with cotton buds as this can push earwax further into the ear canal, leading to impacted wax and potential damage to the eardrum. Ear candling has grown in popularity in recent years as a way to clean earwax from your ears and involves placing a hollow candle in the ear and lighting it, with the belief that the heat and suction will remove earwax. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of ear candling, and it can have negative consequences, including burns, punctured eardrums, and other injuries.”
3. Know when to call in the professionals
“Remember that some earwax is good, but sometimes it can have a significant impact on our hearing. Some build ups can trigger tinnitus, which is hearing a ringing or whooshing sound in the ear, when there are no external sounds present.
“In this instance, the best thing to do is to get checked by your local audiologist. There are a number of techniques your healthcare professional will use, including micro-suction for the safest wax removal, as well as conducting a hearing test to ensure there are no underlying issues.”
For more information about Bayfields Opticians and Audiologists please visit www.bayfieldsopticians.com
