Ear Wax Removal
What is ear wax?
Ear wax (cerumen) is a normal substance produced by the ear canal to lubricate and protect the ear canal. A small amount of wax in the ear is normal but if a build up of excess wax occurs then professional ear wax removal may be necessary.
Symptoms of excessive build up of wax in the ears include:
Reduced or muffled hearing
A feeling of ‘fullness’ in the ears
Itching
Tinnitus (ringing sensation)
Some people are more prone to producing excess wax and it may also be more common in those who wear hearing aids or use in ear headphones frequently, as well as those clean their ears with cotton buds.
For more information on ear wax, please click here to visit the NHS website on ear wax build up.
Why choose Serenity Acupuncture Clinic for ear wax removal?
Clare has years of experience as a doctor in the NHS and is proficient in the examination of ears and recognition of a wide variety of ear disorders. She has undertaken additional training and certification in Microsuction and Irrigation in order to provide a safe and pain free method for removal of excess ear wax in those aged 18 years and over.
How does Microsuction or Irrigation remove ear wax?
At your appointment, Clare will examine the ear canals with an otoscope to assess the extent of any blockage and decide which method of removal is most appropriate. Clare also uses the latest in video otoscope technology to allow you to see the ear canals for yourself. For Microsuction, a small probe is inserted into the ear canal and a vacuum pump attached to suction out any excess wax. Impacted or deep wax may need to be removed with warm water irrigation, where warm water is used to soften and then gently flush out the excessive wax.
It is advisable to use olive oil ear drops or spray for three days prior to your appointment as it helps to soften the wax and make it easier to remove.
If warm water irrigation is used then you will need to protect your ear canal from water for three days after the appointment by wearing ear plugs in the shower and also avoid submerging your ears underwater for a further seven days.
When is ear wax removal not appropriate?
In most cases Microsuction and/or irrigation provides a safe and effective solution to excess ear wax. However, in some cases it may not be suitable, such as:
Recent perforation of the ear drum
Infection
Previous surgery on the ears
Please contact Clare to discuss if you have any concerns over your suitability for ear wax removal.
How much does ear wax removal cost?
Ear Wax Removal £60
Consultation Only (No removal needed) £20
The flat fee of £60 is to remove wax from one or both ears. If, on examining your ears, no wax is seen then you will be only charged a consultation fee of £20.
On occasion, it may not be possible to remove all the wax in one appointment, especially if the wax is hard or impacted. In this case, you will receive another appointment, at no extra charge, to remove the remaining wax and be advised to use olive oil drops at home between appointments.
Payment is to be made at your appointment by card or cash.
How to book an appointment
You can book an online here, by phone on 07311 278773 or by email at
serenity-acupunctureclinic@outlook.com.
Appointments typically last 30 minutes. There is parking available at the clinic but there are no toilet facilities and no waiting area, therefore you are advised to arrive at your allotted appointment time.
In some cases, dizziness/vertigo can occur immediately after ear wax removal in susceptible individuals, therefore it is advisable to make sure you have safe means of travel home afterwards.
