Wax is a natural substance found in the outer ear. It is important because it protects the ear in several ways.
It acts as a barrier, preventing dust, hairs and foreign bodies getting into the ear.
It is a lubricant so keeps the outer ear moist, preventing dryness.
It is bactericidal, so helps protect the ear from infection
Most of the time, ears are self-cleaning and wax makes its own way out of the ear. However, sometimes if wax becomes excessive or troublesome, it may need to be removed.
A thorough consultation is carried out at every appointment. Although we always examine both ears, often people will just have one blocked ear and we would always only carry out necessary treatments
Wax removal can be carried out by instrumentation, irrigation or microsuction. Free return treatment if wax isn't cleared at the first appointment.
A thorough consultation at home. Wax removal by instrumentation, irrigation or microsuction. Price dependent on location.
Microsuction is a method of removing wax using a suction machine. Some people, who may have had ear surgery or who may have a perforation, will have microsuction as an alternative to irrigation (ear syringing).
You will lie on a couch or sit in a reclining chair whilst the nurse looks into your ear through a microscope or loupe glasses. She will place a small instrument into the ear which is attached to a tube and the wax will be removed by suction.
No water is involved in this procedure, although Linda or the other Specialist Nurses may use an olive oil spray if the wax is hard.
In this procedure a controlled jet of warm water is instilled into the outer ear, rinsing the wax out. The ear is dried afterwards.
The Specialist Nurses will ensure they have direct vision into your ear canal by using a headlight and loupe glasses. You will sit in a chair and hold a receptacle called a noots to collect the water and wax.
This method is not suitable for people who have had previous ear problems or ear surgery, so a full history is taken at every consultation.
Instrumentation is a method of removing wax using an instrument. This may be appropriate if the wax is at the outside of the ear canal.
The Specialist Nurses will ensure they have direct vision into your ear canal by using a headlight and loupe glasses. They will gently tease the wax out of your ear with an appropriate instrument.
Get in touch to book your appointment or to give any comments or suggestions about the Service: 07702600962