Ear wax is a naturally produced waxy substance which serves an important function to protect the ears from foreign materials, dust and microorganisms.

Yes, they do in-fact self-clean. The wax that is produced traps foreign materials that enter the ear canal and this naturally dries up and moves from the ear drum to the ear opening to fall out and be removed.

This is due to excess build-up of ear wax which when not removed becomes hard and results in a blockage.

So, what causes this to occur? Some of the reasons are listed below:

• Narrow ear canals

• Hairy ear canals which prevent many parts of the wax from leaving the ear

• Exostosis or osteoma which are bony growths in the ear which result in a narrow canal

• Swimmer’s ear – inflamed ear canal

• Skin conditions such as eczema/psoriasis

There are many ads on social media and the internet of products which claim to remove ear wax but you shouldn’t insert any external object in your ear - be it a cotton bud or any other device.

Best practice involves the use of olive oil ear drops. Applying olive oil ear drops helps to soften ear wax and over time this encourages the ear wax to naturally fall out of your ears (often whilst you sleep). In some cases, this is not sufficient and we would recommend booking a microsuction appointment. If the timeslots on our website do not suit you, feel free to drop us a message and we will try our best to make a timeslot available that works for you.

If your ear wax appears to be an off colour, don’t be alarmed. Earwax can come in different colours. Ear wax that has been in your ears for a while can oxidise which gives it a dark/black appearance as opposed to the conventional yellow look.

• Hearing loss – minor or major

• Tinnitus – ringing or any sound you can hear that no one else can

• Earache/pain

• Itchy ears

• Discharge – may be an infection in some cases

• The feeling of fullness

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above you should have your ears inspected by a professional to determine whether you have a build-up of excessive earwax.

The microsuction practitioner will explain the next steps to you including whether it will be necessary for you to book in an appointment for microsuction ear wax removal appointment.

Microsuction is a pain free treatment method of wax removal. You will be required to use olive oil ear drops/spray twice a day for between 1-2 week before your appointment.