Earwax Removal
in Eastbourne

When will I know there is a problem with earwax?

Ear wax (or ‘cerumen’) is a naturally occurring substance that is produced by the ceruminous and sebaceous glands of the outer ear canal. It protects the ear canal by lubricating, cleaning, and fighting bacteria.

In the UK, it is estimated that 2.3 million people a year have problems with ear wax. As a result, the wax gradually builds up to form a solid mass instead of being disposed of in everyday life as normal. Another common occurrence is the overuse of cotton swabs or cotton buds on the ears; this can result in wax being pushed farther into the ear canal. This can result in serious complications.

What are the symptoms of earwax build-up?

• A feeling of ‘fullness’ in the ear
• Ear pain or soreness
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Hearing difficulties
• Itchiness inside the ear
• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Nausea

Do not attempt a manual removal yourself if you have any of the above symptoms. In many cases, this can make things far worse. It is always preferable to get advice and treatment from an expert.

There is no evidence that ear candles and other DIY removal kits sold on the internet are effective in treating earwax build up or blockages. We strongly advise against using them as permanent damage or hearing loss can occur.

What causes earwax build-up

A build-up of earwax can happen if you have:

• Narrow or damaged ear canals.
• Lots of hair in your ear canals.
• A skin condition affecting your scalp or around your ear.
• Inflammation of your ear canal (otitis externa or "swimmer's ear").
• Exposure to noisy or dusty environments.
• Wear hearing aids.
• Use ear plugs.
• Use airpods, earbuds or other in ear headphones.

Removing Earwax.

Important: Do not use your fingers or any objects like cotton buds to remove earwax. This will push it in and make it worse.

There are three main methods used to remove earwax build up or blockages, your clinician will choose the best method based on medical history, circumstances and the type and amount of wax.

Microsuction.

Microsuction is one of the safest methods to clean the ear. The clinician treating you looks at your ear using a microscope. This makes it easier for us to assess and treat. A suction device is used to clean the ear without using any water.

Is there pain during microsuction?
No. The gentle suction device works in a similar way to a vacuum cleaner, and although it can be quite noisy, it is quick and painless.

Ear Irrigation.

An electronic ear irrigator is used; it involves a pressurised flow of warm water that removes the build-up of earwax. The irrigator has variable pressure control so that irrigation can be performed at the minimum pressure. A controlled flow of warm water will be squirted into your ear canal to flush out the earwax. Ear irrigation should be a painless procedure.

Manual Removal of Earwax.

What is manual ear wax removal? Manual earwax removal involves the use of specialized tools to remove the ear wax from the outer part of the ear canal. Sometimes it helps to physically lift the piece of ear wax if it is quite solid and deep. Often, however, manual removal will be used in conjunction with other, more advanced techniques. If you undergo Water Irrigation, then a tool known as a ‘Jobson Horne’ may also be used to remove any compacted wax that the water may otherwise be unable to flush out.