Professional Ear Cleaning

Why Professional Ear Cleaning Matters

Many people reach for a cotton swab to clean their ears, but this common habit can do more harm than good. Instead of removing earwax, cotton swabs often push it deeper into the ear canal, potentially leading to blockages, discomfort, and even hearing problems. Fortunately, professional ear cleaning provides a safe and effective solution for those experiencing earwax buildup.

Do You Need Professional Ear Cleaning?

The ears are naturally self-cleaning, meaning most people don’t need regular earwax removal. However, some individuals are more prone to buildup due to factors such as:

Hearing aid use: Hearing aids, while extremely helpful at helping those with hearing loss improve their quality of life, can sometimes push wax deeper into the ear.

Narrow or curved ear canals: Certain ear shapes can make natural wax drainage more difficult.

Excess hair in the ear canal: This can trap wax and prevent it from exiting naturally.

Skin conditions like eczema: This can contribute to excessive wax production and blockages.

Aging: Older adults may experience drier, harder earwax that is more difficult to remove.

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be time to consider a hearing assessment and a professional ear cleaning:

• A feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
• Decreased hearing or muffled sounds
• Itchiness or discomfort inside the ear
• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing sounds)
• Dizziness or balance issues
• Unusual ear odor or discharge

Safe and Effective Methods for Earwax Removal

Hearing care professionals use several safe and effective methods to remove excess earwax, including:

1. Suction

This method involves using a specialized vacuum to gently extract wax from the ear canal. A softening agent may be applied beforehand to loosen the wax, making it easier to remove. The process is quick and effective, though it can be a bit loud.

2. Curette

A curette is a small, spoon-shaped tool used to manually scoop out wax. This method is often combined with suction for more stubborn cases. While generally safe, some risks may include minor irritation or abrasions inside the ear canal.

3. Irrigation

This process involves flushing the ear canal with a mixture of warm (body temperature) water and saline to dislodge wax. It’s an effective technique, but it’s not suitable for individuals with a perforated eardrum or a history of ear infections. If performed incorrectly, irrigation can lead to dizziness or discomfort which is why it is important to see a trained professional for this procedure.

What to Expect During a Professional Ear Cleaning

If you visit a hearing care professional for earwax removal, they will first examine your ears with an otoscope (magnified light) to assess the extent of the buildup. Depending on your specific needs, they may use one or more of the above methods to remove the wax. Most ear cleanings take about 15 minutes and provide immediate relief from symptoms like muffled hearing or ear pressure.

Can You Clean Your Ears at Home?

In most cases, your ears will naturally expel wax without intervention. However, if you experience minor buildup, you can try the following at-home methods:

Use a few drops of over-the-counter ear drops known as cerumenolytic drops to soften wax so it can drain naturally.

Tilt your head while showering to let warm water flush out loosened wax.

Avoid inserting objects into your ear canal, including cotton swabs, bobby pins, or ear candles, as these can cause blockages or injury. If you frequently struggle with earwax buildup or have symptoms of a blockage, professional ear cleaning is the safest and most effective option.

Protect Your Hearing With Professional Care

Hearing health is essential, and proper ear care plays a crucial role in maintaining it. If you suspect you have an earwax blockage or are experiencing discomfort, schedule an appointment with a hearing care provider. Professional ear cleaning can restore your hearing clarity and ensure your ears stay healthy for years to come.