What is ear wax?
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a substance made by the small glands in the outer part of the ear canal. It’s a mixture of shed skin cells, secretions from the ear, and small particles such as dust.
Although it may not look appealing, this wax plays an important role in protecting your ear canal and inner ear. It helps trap dirt and bacteria before they can move further inside, lowering the risk of irritation or infection. It also keeps the skin in the ear canal from becoming dry or sore.
Our ears gradually move older wax outward. Problems tend to happen only when more wax builds up than the ear can clear. This is when a blockage can form.
What causes ear wax build-up?
Ear wax does not always clear as it should, and some people’s bodies simply produce more wax than others.
Here are factors that can make build-up more likely:
- The shape of the ear can play a part. If it’s narrow, curved or damaged, wax may not be able to move outward as easily.
- Wearing hearing aids, earplugs or earphones for long periods can also prevent wax from clearing. These items push wax further in and limit natural movement, allowing it to gather over time.
- Regularly cleaning inside the ear can actually make things worse. Cotton buds and similar objects can push wax further down the canal, where it can become compacted.
Other factors may increase the likelihood of a blockage, such as having a lot of hair in the canal, certain skin conditions that affect the scalp or outer ear, or inflammation inside the ear.
Symptoms of ear wax build up
When ear wax starts to build up, the signs are not always the same for everyone. For some people, symptoms gradually appear over time. Others may suddenly feel as though their ear has become blocked.
Common symptoms can include:
- Reduced hearing – sounds may seem quieter or less clear than usual.
- A feeling of pressure in the ear – the ear may feel blocked or uncomfortable.
- Earache and pain – a build-up of wax can cause pain or irritation, particularly if it becomes compacted.
Less common symptoms can include:
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) – you may notice a ringing, buzzing or humming sound that has no external source.
- Feeling dizzy (vertigo) – in some cases, a blocked ear can affect balance and cause mild dizziness or nausea.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it’s worth having your ears checked to see whether ear wax is the cause.
What is microsuction ear wax removal?
Microsuction is a gentle suction method to remove wax from the ear canal. This method is considered to be safer and more comfortable than other ear wax removal methods such as irrigation or ear syringing.
What to expect at your appointment
Your appointment begins with an examination of your ears using the Tympa system, a specialist otoscope that provides a clear, magnified view of the ear canal and eardrum. This allows the pharmacist to confirm whether there is a build-up of wax.
If there is excessive ear wax, you will be asked to soften it using olive oil drops or spray for 5 – 7 days, and then return for a private ear microsuction procedure.
During the procedure
During the procedure, a trained member of the pharmacy team will gently insert a small suction probe into the ear and use low suction pressure to remove the ear wax. The procedure is performed under magnification with a bright LED light giving a clear view of the ear canal and eardrum.
This process is quick and many patients feel relieved after getting their excess ear wax removed, with hearing often improving immediately.
If you think a build-up might be causing your symptoms, microsuction ear wax removal is available at select Day Lewis Pharmacies.
How does microsuction compare to other ear wax removal methods?
Ear drops such as olive oil can soften wax, but they do not always clear a blockage on their own, particularly if the wax is compacted.
Irrigation, sometimes called ear syringing, uses water to rinse the ear canal. It can work well for some people but is not suitable in every case.
Microsuction removes wax using gentle suction. This allows for a more controlled approach, and appointments are typically quick, with many people noticing clearer hearing afterwards.
Who is eligible for microsuction earwax removal?
Most adults can come in for the microsuction earwax removal service. However, if you have any of the below symptoms, we may recommend further assessment:
- Severe earache
- Ringing in the ears or tinnitus
- Hearing loss
- Vertigo (sick or dizzy feeling).
Microsuction may not be suitable if you have a known perforated eardrum, a current ear infection, or have recently had ear surgery, so it’s important to let the pharmacist know about any existing ear conditions before treatment.
If you would like further advice on ear wax removal, speak to your local Day Lewis pharmacist who will be able to give you more information about the treatment.
Are there any risks or side effects?
Microsuction is widely regarded as a safe way to remove ear wax when carried out by a trained professional. Most people find the procedure straightforward.
Occasionally, mild side effects can occur:
- Some people may feel slightly dizzy or lightheaded during or shortly after treatment. This is usually temporary and settles quickly.
- Very rarely, minor injury to the ear canal or eardrum can occur, which may cause a small amount of bleeding. Remaining still during the procedure helps reduce this risk.
- Because the treatment involves a suction device, you may notice some temporary changes in hearing immediately afterwards. In most cases, this will settle quickly. It is extremely uncommon for microsuction to cause long-term hearing problems or worsen tinnitus.
- There is also a very small risk of infection. Strict hygiene and infection control procedures are followed, and sterile equipment is used for each patient to minimise this risk.
If you develop ongoing pain or symptoms after your appointment, you should seek medical advice.
When should you see a GP about ear symptoms?
In many cases, you can be assessed and treated safely in a pharmacy setting through our NHS Pharmacy First service. However, there are certain symptoms that should be checked by a GP or healthcare professional before considering microsuction.
Seek medical advice if you experience:
- Severe or worsening ear pain
- A sudden loss of hearing
- Persistent dizziness or balance problems
- Signs of infection such as swelling, redness or a high temperature
- Discharge from the ear, especially if it has a foul smell or contains blood.
Looking after your ears and knowing when to seek medical advice is just as important as choosing the right treatment.
Looking after your ears
To help reduce the risk of wax build-up:
- Avoid inserting cotton buds or objects into the ear.
- Use olive oil drops occasionally if recommended by a pharmacist.
- Keep hearing aids and other in-ear items clean.
The ear is usually self-cleaning, so in most cases, no regular cleaning is needed.
How much does microsuction ear wax removal cost?
Your local pharmacy team can confirm the exact cost when booking. If wax needs to be softened before treatment, you may be asked to return for a follow-up appointment.
For current pricing and availability, contact your nearest Day Lewis Pharmacy.
How to book your appointment
Microsuction ear wax removal is available at select Day Lewis Pharmacies.
You can arrange your appointment in a way that suits you:
- Book online through our website.
- Call your local pharmacy directly.
- Visit your nearest branch in person.
Our pharmacy team will be happy to answer any questions and guide you through the next steps.
FAQs
Should you have ear wax removed before a hearing test?
If you have a significant build-up of ear wax it is recommended to have it removed before a hearing test. This will help to ensure the results are accurate.
Is ear wax removal at home safe?
Olive oil or pharmacy ear drops may help soften wax so it can clear naturally. Avoid using cotton buds or inserting objects into the ear, as this can push wax further in or cause injury. If symptoms persist, professional assessment is recommended.
Can I do anything to soften ear wax before my appointment?
You might be advised to use olive oil drops or spray for several days before your appointment. This can help to soften the wax and make the removal easier. Our pharmacy team will let you know if this is necessary.
Is ear wax removal painful?
Ear wax removal is generally not painful when performed by a trained professional. You might feel mild pressure. You can let the pharmacist know if you feel uncomfortable at any point.
How often should I have my ears professionally cleaned?
Most people do not need their ears professionally cleaned regularly. Treatment is usually only needed if symptoms develop or wax build-up becomes problematic.
Does microsuction remove foreign objects from the ear?
No, microsuction is designed to remove excess ear wax only. If a foreign object has been inserted into the ear, medical assessment is recommended.
Do I need to do anything after my appointment?
Yes, you may be asked to keep your ears dry for 24 to 72 hours. Avoid putting anything inside the ear canal, and monitor for any unusual symptoms.
Can microsuction damage your ears or hearing?
When carried out by a trained professional, microsuction is considered a safe procedure. Damage to the ears or hearing can happen in extremely rare cases.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of ear wax build-up, our pharmacy team can assess your ears and advise on the most appropriate treatment. Book your appointment at your local Day Lewis Pharmacy today.
