Common Symptoms of Excess Ear Wax
Ear wax is a natural substance produced by the body to protect the ears from dust, bacteria, and other foreign particles. However, excessive build-up of earwax can lead to various symptoms, including:
- Hearing Loss or Muffled Sound: When ear wax accumulates in the ear canal, it can block sound waves from reaching the eardrum, causing temporary hearing loss or a muffled sound sensation.
- Ringing or Buzzing Noise (Tinnitus): Impacted ear wax can create pressure on the eardrum, leading to a ringing or buzzing noise in the affected ear.
- Ear Pain or Discomfort: As ear wax hardens and accumulates, it can cause pressure and irritation within the ear canal, resulting in pain or discomfort.
- Dizziness or Vertigo: In some cases, excessive ear wax can affect the balance mechanism within the inner ear, leading to feelings of dizziness or vertigo.
- Itching or Irritation: The build-up of ear wax can cause itching or irritation in the ear canal, prompting the urge to scratch or insert objects into the ear, which can further exacerbate the problem.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional help from an experienced ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist like Jonathan Hughes ENT, located on Harley Street in London.
When to Seek Professional Help for Ear Wax Removal
While some earwax build-up is normal and can be managed at home with over-the-counter ear drops or gentle ear cleaning techniques, there are situations where professional assistance is necessary. Consider seeking professional ear wax removal if:
- Home Remedies Fail: If you have tried over-the-counter ear drops or other home remedies, but the earwax build-up persists, it’s time to consult a professional.
- Severe Symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms such as significant hearing loss, intense pain, or vertigo, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
- History of Ear Conditions: If you have a history of ear conditions, such as chronic ear infections, perforated eardrums, or previous ear surgeries, it’s best to consult an ENT specialist for safe and effective earwax removal.
- Presence of Foreign Objects: If you suspect a foreign object is lodged in your ear, do not attempt to remove it yourself, as this can cause further damage. Seek professional help immediately.
When symptoms worsen and the time comes that you require professional help from us, you may have questions going into the removal. It may help ease your mind to understand what is likely to happen in the procedure.
Professional Ear Wax Removal: What to Expect
- Initial Consultation: During the initial consultation, we will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns you may have. This helps develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
- Ear Examination: Using specialised instruments and a microscope, we will carefully examine your ear canal and eardrum to assess the extent of the earwax build-up and rule out any underlying conditions.
- Earwax Removal Techniques: Depending on the severity of the build-up and your individual circumstances, we may employ one or more of the following techniques:
- Micro-suction: This gentle method involves using a specialised suction device to safely remove excess earwax from the ear canal.
- Curette or Forceps: In some cases, we may use specialised tools like curettes or forceps to manually remove hardened earwax or debris.
- Ear Irrigation: This technique involves flushing the ear canal with a warm, sterile solution to dislodge and remove earwax build-up.
Once, you’ve received treatment it’s important to maintain this cleanliness level in your ears to prevent the issue reappearing again down the line, there are simple and effective ways to do this.
How to Prevent Excessive Ear Wax Build-up
While some earwax production is natural and necessary, excessive build-up can lead to various issues. To help prevent excessive earwax accumulation, consider the following tips:
- Avoid Inserting Objects into the Ear Canal: Resist the temptation to use cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects to clean your ears, as this can push earwax deeper into the ear canal and cause further build-up or damage.
- Use Ear Drops Sparingly: While over-the-counter ear drops can help soften and remove earwax, excessive use can lead to further build-up or irritation. Follow the instructions carefully and consult a professional if the issue persists.
- Maintain Proper Ear Hygiene: Gently clean the outer ear with a soft, damp cloth during your regular washing routine.
- Consider Regular Professional Cleanings: If you are prone to excessive earwax build-up, consider scheduling regular professional cleanings with an ENT specialist like Jonathan Hughes ENT.
- Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration can help maintain the proper consistency of earwax, making it easier for the body to naturally expel excess build-up.
By following these preventive measures and seeking professional help when necessary, you can maintain optimal ear health and avoid the discomfort and complications associated with excessive earwax build-up.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of excessive earwax build-up or have concerns about your ear health, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Jonathan Hughes ENT on Harley Street, London.