What is Ear wax?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural, protective substance produced by glands in the outer ear canal. It acts as a self-cleaning agent, trapping dirt ,dust, and microorganisisms to prevent them from reaching the eardrum, while also moisturising the skin and repelling water.
It typically migrates out of the ear on its own. A mix of cerumen, sebum (oily skin secretion), dead skin cells, and hair. Its acidic nature and oily texture protect against bacteria, fungus, and infections.
Self-cleaning: It travels from the eardrum to the outer ear opening to the outer ear opening, aided by jaw movements from talking and chewing.
When to remove Ear Wax, You only need to remove ear wax if it builds up and causes symptoms, such as:
Temporary hearing loss or dullness.
A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear.
Earache, itching, or tinitus
Managing Ear Wax
Do not use cotton buds, hairpins, or other small objects as this can damage the skin, cause infections, or push the wax deeper.
Softening Drops:
Use ear drops, such as spray olive oil, Almond oil twice a week to soften wax and encourage it to fall out naturally.
Seek Care:
If symptoms persist, visit EarsbyRosie for professional safe removal techniques like Microsuction or Irrigation.
Microsuction
Safe, gentle wax removal using the gold standard technique.
Digital Imaging
Clear HD images and videos for precise diagnosis and care. I can also send digital images to your GP if required.
Community-based care with shared visuals for better understanding and ear care.
Community Care
BEFORE PROCEDURE:
Before having microsuction, clearance of wax, it is important to soften and break down the wax to make the procedure more effective and comfortable.
My recommendation prior to your appointment is to use spray olive oil, such as EAROL, with 2 applications (sprays) twice daily. This ensures the wax is covered and not just pooling at the bottom of the ear canal. If using Sodium Bicarbonate, use only for 3 days as this can be harsh on the skin of the ear canal; then change over to olive oil. Please only use medical olive oil. If your ears are particularly dry & itchy, try EAROL ALMOND OIL.
If the wax is particularly hard or compacted against the eardrum, more than one appointment/visit may be required.