Ear wax is a normal substance that protects the skin inside the ear, traps dust and helps prevent infection. Usually, it works its way out of the ear naturally and does not need to be removed. However, wax can sometimes build up, become hard or block the ear canal. When this happens, professional ear wax removal may improve symptoms safely and help identify whether another condition is causing the problem.

What symptoms can blocked ear wax cause?

A build-up of ear wax may affect one or both ears. Common symptoms include:

  • Muffled or reduced hearing
  • A feeling of fullness, pressure or blockage in the ear
  • Ringing or other noises in the ear, known as tinnitus
  • Itching or irritation around the ear canal
  • Mild earache or discomfort
  • Changes in hearing that are more noticeable after bathing or swimming

Some people only realise they have a blockage when they use headphones, speak on the telephone or notice that the television needs to be louder. Wax can also interfere with the use of hearing aids or make it difficult for a healthcare professional to examine the ear properly.

These symptoms are not always caused by ear wax. Ear infections, problems with the eardrum, fluid behind the eardrum and sudden hearing loss can cause similar changes. Professional assessment is therefore important, particularly if symptoms are new, severe or persistent.

When should you book professional ear wax removal?

You may wish to book an assessment if your symptoms suggest that wax is blocking the ear and have not settled with appropriate self-care. Professional removal is also worth considering if you have tried recommended ear drops but your hearing remains affected, or if wax is preventing an examination of the ear or the fitting of a hearing device.

People who regularly experience troublesome build-up may benefit from discussing a suitable approach with a pharmacist or other trained healthcare professional. Ear wax can be more likely to accumulate if you use hearing aids or earplugs, have narrow or hairy ear canals, or frequently put objects into your ears. This does not mean that regular removal is needed automatically; the ears should be assessed and removal should only be carried out when appropriate.

It is sensible to arrange removal before an important hearing assessment, hearing-aid appointment or other examination if you know that wax commonly affects you. Allow enough time for an assessment and, if necessary, treatment rather than attempting to clear the ears at the last minute.

When should you seek medical advice first?

Ear wax removal is not suitable for everyone without further assessment. Contact a GP, NHS 111 or another appropriate healthcare service before booking, or tell the pharmacy about your medical history, if you have:

  • Severe or increasing ear pain
  • Fluid, pus or blood coming from the ear
  • A fever or symptoms of an ear infection
  • Sudden hearing loss or hearing that is rapidly getting worse
  • Significant dizziness, loss of balance or vomiting
  • A known or suspected perforated eardrum
  • Recent ear surgery, grommets or other ear procedures
  • An object stuck in the ear

Sudden hearing loss should not be assumed to be ear wax and needs prompt medical assessment. Similarly, pain, discharge or marked dizziness may indicate a condition that requires treatment rather than wax removal. A professional may decide that removal should be postponed or that you need referral to another service.

Why should you avoid cotton buds and home remedies?

Cotton buds, hairpins and other objects can push wax deeper into the ear canal. They may scratch the delicate skin, cause bleeding or damage the eardrum. Ear candles and vacuum devices sold for home use are not recommended methods for clearing ear wax and may cause burns, blockage or injury.

Some people can soften ear wax with suitable drops, such as products recommended by a pharmacist. However, drops should not be used if you may have a perforated eardrum unless a healthcare professional has advised you to do so. Almond oil should be avoided by anyone with an almond allergy. Follow the product instructions and ask for advice if you are unsure whether drops are suitable.

What happens during professional ear wax removal?

Your appointment will normally begin with questions about your symptoms, medical history, previous ear problems and any treatment you have tried. The practitioner will examine the ear to check whether wax is present and whether removal appears appropriate. They may also discuss your hearing and any symptoms that could suggest another cause.

If removal is suitable, the practitioner will explain the procedure and answer your questions. Depending on the findings, training available and your individual circumstances, wax may be removed using an appropriate professional technique, such as microsuction or manual removal. In some settings, irrigation may be considered, but it is not suitable for everyone. The safest method depends on the condition of the ear canal and eardrum, the consistency of the wax and your medical history.

You may hear a working noise or feel mild pressure during the procedure. Removal should not be painful, although a sensitive or irritated ear may feel uncomfortable. Tell the practitioner immediately if you experience pain, dizziness or distress. The ear may be checked again afterwards, and you may be given advice about keeping the ear healthy and preventing further build-up.

Are there risks?

Professional ear wax removal is generally well tolerated when carried out after suitable assessment, but no procedure is completely risk-free. Possible effects include temporary discomfort, irritation of the ear canal, a short-lived change in hearing, mild dizziness or temporary worsening of tinnitus. Removal may occasionally be incomplete, particularly when wax is very hard or tightly lodged.

Less common complications can include infection, bleeding or injury to the ear canal or eardrum. This is why it is important to provide accurate information about previous ear surgery, perforations, infections and any symptoms such as discharge. Do not continue trying to remove wax at home if the ear becomes painful or symptoms worsen.

How can you look after your ears afterwards?

Once wax has been removed, avoid putting objects into the ear canal. Clean only the outer ear with a soft cloth and follow any advice provided at your appointment. If hearing does not return to normal, or if pain, discharge, dizziness or other symptoms develop, seek further medical advice rather than arranging repeated removal without assessment.

Book professional ear wax removal in Welwyn

If blocked ears or muffled hearing are affecting your everyday life, Barnes Pharmacy can assess whether professional ear wax removal is appropriate and explain what to expect. Book ear wax removal at our village pharmacy on Welwyn High Street.