Ear Irrigation 

BACK TO MAIN INDEX

If you’re dealing with discomfort or hearing loss caused by impacted earwax, we’re here to assist you.

Our skilled nurses specialise in the safe and effective removal of earwax, helping to relieve your symptoms and enhance your hearing.

To make use of our ear irrigation service, please book an appointment with one of our experienced nurses who will first examine your ear cancel to ensure you are suitable. You can arrange this by calling us or visiting our reception in person, where our friendly team will gladly assist you in scheduling a suitable time. However, before booking, we kindly ask you to review the following information to confirm that you are eligible for an appointment

What Is Earwax?

Earwax is a mixture of dead skin cells, hair, dust, and a natural substance called cerumen, which is produced by glands in the ear. Cerumen forms a protective layer over the skin in the ear canal. It is produced in small amounts continuously, and flakes or bits of earwax naturally fall out of the ear over time.

The amount of earwax varies from person to person. Some people may develop plugs of earwax in their ear canal, which can lead to a feeling of fullness, reduced hearing, discomfort, and, in some cases, ringing in the ear (tinnitus) or mild dizziness (vertigo).

A doctor or nurse can examine the ear canal to confirm if a wax plug is present. While a plug of earwax is not serious, it can be bothersome. Earwax removal is only necessary if it causes symptoms like dulled hearing or if it interferes with hearing aid use or examination of the eardrum.

What to Do if Earwax Builds Up and Causes Symptoms

Ear Drops

Ear drops are often effective in clearing a plug of earwax. Several types are available at pharmacies, including olive oil, almond oil, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium chloride ear drops. Follow these steps for proper use:

1. Warm the Drops: Allow the bottle to reach room temperature by leaving it out for about 30 minutes.
2. Apply the Drops: Pour a few drops into the affected ear while lying down with the affected ear facing upward.
3. Let the Drops Work: Stay in this position for about 5 minutes to let the drops soak into the wax.

Using the drops 2–3 times daily for up to two weeks can soften the earwax, causing it to break apart. Flakes or small pieces of wax often fall out gradually, sometimes without you noticing.

If symptoms persist after this treatment, consider trying a bulb syringe or consulting a healthcare professional for further assistance.

Ear Bulbs: A Self-Treatment Option for Earwax Removal

If earwax doesn't clear after using ear drops, a bulb syringe can be a helpful self-treatment tool. A bulb syringe is a small, rubber device designed to gently squirt water into the ear to remove wax. It is widely available for purchase at pharmacies or online.

Benefits of Using an Ear Bulb:

• Convenient: You can use it yourself without needing to book an appointment with a healthcare provider.
• Lower Infection Risk: It reduces the risk of infection compared to traditional ear irrigation methods.
• Effective: Many users successfully remove earwax with a bulb syringe.
• Controlled Pressure: You can control the water pressure, adjusting it to prevent discomfort.
• Cost-Effective: Bulb syringes are affordable, reusable, and allow for repeated use as needed.

Regular earwax removal can also benefit hearing aid users. Dense earwax can sometimes cause feedback, whistling noises, and reduced sound quality from hearing aids. Using a bulb syringe can help maintain better hearing aid performance.

Note: Always follow instructions when using a bulb syringe to ensure safe and effective use. If symptoms persist, seek advice from a healthcare professional.

How to Use an Ear Bulb Safely

(If you experience any pain during this procedure, stop immediately and consult your practice nurse.)

1. Prepare the Water:
   • Fill a bowl with clean, warm (not hot) water.
   • Squeeze and release the bulb syringe in the water several times to fill it with warm water.
2. Position Yourself:
   • Tilt your head so the affected ear faces upwards.
   • This can be done while standing in the shower, sitting in the bath, or lying on a bed with a towel beneath your head.
3. Insert the Water:
   • Gently pull your ear upwards and outwards to open the ear canal.
   • Place the bulb syringe nozzle just inside the ear canal (not too deep) and gently squirt warm water into the ear.
   • Leave the water in your ear for 1–3 minutes to soften the wax.
4. Drain the Water:
   • Tilt your head over a sink to allow the water and wax to drain out.
   • Wiggle the outer part of your ear to help loosen and remove the wax.
5. Repeat if Necessary:
   • If both ears are affected, repeat the process on the other ear.

Tips:

• Be gentle to avoid discomfort or damage.
• Use clean water and ensure the bulb syringe is properly cleaned before and after use.
• If the procedure doesn’t work or symptoms persist, seek professional help.

Do not use a bulb syringe in the following circumstances:

• If you have a history of ear drum perforation in the affected ear.
• Symptoms of infection in the ear - usually pain or a smelly discharge.
• Previous surgery on the affected ear.
• Ear Irrigation (Formerly Known as Ear Syringing)

When to Consider Ear Irrigation

Only book an appointment for ear irrigation if there is no improvement after using ear drops and an ear bulb. Ear irrigation involves washing the ear canal with warm water to remove softened earwax plugs. It is effective but requires softened wax to minimize risks, such as perforation of the eardrum.

Preparation for Ear Irrigation

• Use ear drops (e.g., olive oil) 2–3 times daily for two weeks before your appointment to soften the wax.
• If you haven’t used ear drops as recommended, the procedure is less likely to succeed, and you may need to return another time.
• If your hearing improves after using ear drops or an ear bulb, cancel your irrigation appointment.

The Procedure

• Lukewarm water is gently squirted into the ear canal to dislodge the softened wax.
• The plug and water drain out, clearing the ear.
• The procedure is usually painless, but washing stops immediately if discomfort occurs.
• A Nurse or HCA will examine your ear after the procedure to ensure it is clear.

Possible Side Effects

• Some people feel dizzy afterward, but this resolves quickly.
• The ear canal may be prone to infection for 4–5 days until more wax forms.
• In rare cases, irrigation can lead to inflammation, itching, or ear pain.

Seek Medical Attention If You Experience:

• Ear pain or significant discomfort.
• Persistent itching or a discharge from the ear.
• Swelling around the ear canal.

When Ear Irrigation May Not Be Suitable

This procedure may not be recommended if you:

• Have had complications with ear irrigation in the past.
• Have grommets in place or a history of ear surgery (except grommets that fell out at least 18 months ago, with hospital discharge).
• Have a cleft palate, repaired or not.
• Currently have, or recently had, an ear infection.
• Have recurring infections of the ear canal (otitis externa).
• Have, or have had, a perforated eardrum.

If ear irrigation is unsuitable or ineffective, you may be referred to an ear specialist for alternative treatment.

Preventing Earwax Build-Up

For individuals prone to repeated earwax build-up, regular use of ear drops (e.g., olive oil) once or twice a week can help keep the wax soft and prevent blockages.