Safe and Effective Earwax Removal at Provincial Hearing
Though earwax is nature’s way of cleaning your ears by attracting and capturing dirt, dust, and anything else trapped inside your ears, as well as preventing irritation and infection, it can build up and become impacted.
A buildup of earwax or impacted earwax can lead to dizziness, balance problems, headaches, ear pain, and sudden hearing loss. Unfortunately, the most common cause of impacted earwax stems from people using cotton swabs or some other object (we shudder to imagine) in order to clear out the earwax, making the problem worse by pushing it farther down your ear canal.
The safest, most effective, and fastest way to get rid of earwax is to have it removed by a hearing care specialist.
The Myths And Misconceptions Surrounding Earwax Removal
We’ve heard plenty of myths, misconceptions, and treatment suggestions for cleaning out earwax over the years, so we thought we’d expose some of them and provide the truth
My Ears Just Make Too Much Earwax!
Most people’s ears make just the right amount of earwax. However, cleaning them too often signals the cells that make the earwax to step up and make more because your ear canal is too dry.
I’ll Get My Tips From YouTube Videos
DIY videos can be useful for crafts or reviews, but their creators usually lack hearing health expertise. Following their tips may do more harm than good. Always trust trained professionals instead.
Cotton Swabs Will Do The Trick
No, cotton swabs won’t help and can be harmful. They push wax deeper, risk eardrum damage, or leave cotton stuck inside. For safe cleaning and to avoid lasting harm, see a hearing professional.
My Ears Will Sort It Out Themselves
Ear pain, muffled sound, or a stuffy feeling means something’s wrong. A hearing care professional can safely diagnose and treat the issue without risking damage to your ears.
What Happens At An Earwax Removal Appointment?
At Provincial Hearing, our earwax removal specialists have been helping people with their earwax issues for many years. Our hearing instrument specialists are trained to perform this service, ensuring a thorough and effective process.
Preparation and Consultation
Medical History: The specialist (audiologist, nurse, or GP) will ask about your symptoms and history of ear problems.
Consent: You will likely need to sign a consent form, as they will explain the risks and procedures
Preparation: You may be asked to lay your head on a towel or pillow to keep your hair and clothing clean.
Examination (Otoscopy)
Removal Procedures
Microsuction (Preferred Method): Often considered the "gold standard," this uses a small, quiet, vacuum-like device to gently "hoover" out the wax. It is non-invasive and generally preferred for people with a history of ear infections or perforated eardrums.
Irrigation (Syringing): A controlled, low-pressure stream of warm water (or water/saline solution) is aimed at the ear canal to flush out the wax. You may feel a sensation of pressure.
Manual Removal: The specialist uses specialized instruments, such as a curette (a small, curved spoon) or forceps, to gently scrape or pull out the wax.
Before and After the Removal of Earwax
Find clear answers to common questions about hearing assessments, so you know what to expect every step of the way
How To Get The Best Outcome From Your Earwax Removal Appointment
At Provincial Hearing, we’re committed to providing safe, comfortable, and effective earwax removal. To ensure you receive the best possible outcome, we kindly ask that all patients prepare for their appointment by using our ear-softening oil, Audiology Choice, for 4–5 days beforehand.
This simple step helps loosen the wax, makes the procedure quicker and more comfortable, and allows our clinicians to safely complete the removal in one visit. You can pick up the oil at our clinic prior to your appointment, and our team will happily guide you on how to use it.
Please note that wax removal appointments can only be carried out if this preparation has been completed. Thank you for helping us provide efficient, high-quality care to every patient we see.
