If you suspect you have a build-up of ear wax, it’s likely that you’re considering your options to remove it. Microsuction ear wax removal is quick, virtually pain-free, and the safest way to clear ear wax and improve your ear health.
What is Microsuction Ear Wax Removal?
Microsuction ear wax removal is the process of removing built up ear wax by inserting a microscope and a tiny suction tube, otherwise known as a cannula, into the ear canal. The microscope allows the clinician to see exactly what is going on inside your ear, while the suction tube sets to work applying suction to the ear wax and drawing it out. Using the microscope, there is a final check on the ear canal to make sure everything has been removed.
Who is Microsuction Ear Wax Removal for?
Microsuction ear wax removal is primarily for anyone who thinks they have a build-up of ear wax that is causing them problems. According to NICE (the National Institute for Health Care and Excellence), over 2 million people each year are affected by too much ear wax. Indicators that you may have too much ear wax, or impacted ear wax, include:
- A loss of hearing – although a loss of hearing can be attributed to other factors, excess ear wax is a common yet superficial cause that can be easily treated
- Pressure or fullness in the ears – too much ear wax can create a sensation of fullness or slight pressure in your ears
- Itching – ear canals can become itchy and irritated when they have too much ear wax
- Infections – an ear infection can be exacerbated by too much ear wax
- Vertigo – too much ear wax pushing on the eardrum or tympanic membrane can result in a case of vertigo
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we recommend seeking professional help at a clinic that offers microsuction ear wax removal, find a clinic near you.
Ear microsuction can, of course, be used by anyone who wishes to look after their ears and prevent too much wax building up. You don’t have to wait until you experience any of the negative symptoms above. You may have had ear wax build-up before, or have previously used other ear wax removal methods and are looking for an alternative. People over 65 are also more likely to have excessive ear wax, as our ears naturally become drier as we age.
The Benefits of Microsuction Ear Wax Removal
Ear microsuction is becoming increasingly popular because it offers a range of benefits that other methods, like syringing, do not.
- Fast – a microsuction appointment takes between 15 and 30 minutes, making it incredibly convenient to fit into your day
- Pain-free – there may be a small pop or click while the procedure is performed, but there should be no feelings of pain or discomfort
- Effective – as a microscope is used to check the ear before and after the procedure, microsuction is a far more thorough and effective way to remove all of the debris from inside the ear
- No mess – other methods like syringing use a lot of water which is more likely to be messy
- Before and after care – there is no need to use olive oil in the ears for two weeks prior to the treatment and, aside from some possible passing dizziness, there is no downtime after microsuction either
Another important aspect of ear care is understanding the physiology of the ear and wax production. By learning about how the ear works, you can better understand the importance of keeping it clean and healthy. One effective way to do so is through microsuction ear wax removal.
Above anything else, ear wax microsuction is incredibly safe and has a far lower chance of causing any negative side effects. Alternative methods, like syringing, use water; this rush of water into the ear canal can cause a resulting infection. It can also damage or irritate the lining of the ear, again potentially leading to an infection.
Can You Remove Ear Wax Yourself?
It may be tempting to try and remove ear wax yourself at home, either with a cotton bud or with a spiral ear wax remover. This is seriously advised against. Both of these methods can actually push ear wax further down into the ear canal and make the problem much worse.
Even if they offer temporary relief, these are not long-term solutions, whereas ear wax microsuction removes all of the ear wax and its effects last a significant amount of time. Some patients choose to have regularly scheduled ear wax microsuction appointments to keep their ears clear of wax and avoid infections. This is usually people prone to infections.
Others may choose to have the procedure once every six months or annually. However often you choose to undergo microsuction ear wax removal, it is a far more effective, safe, and low risk method than trying to remove ear wax yourself at home.
Ear wax is important for ear health, so removing earwax professionally ensures it is done correctly and offers the best outcome.
Ear Infections and Microsuction Ear Wax Removal
As well as being helpful in preventing ear infections, ear microsuction can also be carried out while you have an ear infection. Infections like otitis externa are usually treated with ear drops. If these ear drops cannot get to the site of the infection because of impacted ear wax, then they will not work properly. Dispersing the build-up of wax and removing it from the ear helps the drops to work as intended. As microsuction is quick and painless, there is no reason why it cannot be done when you have an ear infection. As there is also no pretreatment required, you can have ear microsuction done on the same day and be back home.
If you’re suffering recurrent ear infections, it may be useful to consider microsuction ear wax removal to ensure any other treatment has the best chance of working.
Microsuction Ear Wax Removal with Ear Care Clinic
Ear Care Clinic is a network of highly experienced audiologists and ear specialists based across London. We offer microsuction ear wax removal in convenient locations and at affordable prices. Looking after your ears can solve a number of associated problems, like hearing loss, vertigo and tinnitus. We’re committed to delivering exceptional microsuction services so everyone can have healthy ears. Contact us to find out more or book an appointment today.