Earwax Removal Service
Gentle Professional Earwax Removal by Now Hear This® Audiologists
What is Earwax and Why it Matters?
Earwax (also called cerumen) is a natural substance produced in the ear canal that protects your ears by trapping dirt, dust, and bacteria. It also lubricates the skin in the ear canal to prevent dryness and itching. In most cases, the ear manages this process on its own by moving wax out of the ear slowly as part of its normal self-cleaning mechanism.
However, when earwax accumulates too quickly or becomes impacted, it can block the ear canal and affect hearing clarity or cause discomfort. In these situations, leaving the buildup untreated may lead to symptoms such as muffled hearing, ear pressure, itching, ringing (tinnitus), or dizziness. Professional evaluation and removal are recommended when these issues occur.
Professional Earwax Removal: What to Expect
At Now Hear This®, earwax removal is performed by a trained Doctor of Audiology using safe, effective methods tailored to each patient’s needs.
A typical appointment includes:
1. Comprehensive Ear Evaluation
Before removal, we use a visual instrument (otoscope) to assess the amount and location of the wax buildup and determine the safest approach. This ensures we choose the method best suited to your situation.
2. Safe Removal Techniques
Depending on the degree of wax accumulation and your ear anatomy, we may use one or more of the following approaches:
• Manual Extraction: Using specialized tools like a curette (small stainless-steel instrument) and magnification to gently lift out earwax that’s not deeply impacted.
• Microsuction: A controlled suction device that removes excess earwax while minimizing pressure in the ear canal. This device is great for sticky or “wet” earwax.
• Irrigation: Warm, pressure-regulated fluid may be used to flush out softer buildup when appropriate.
→ After removal, we re-examine your ears to make sure all problematic wax has
been cleared and your ear canal looks healthy.
Many home remedies and over-the-counter tools seem convenient, but they
often carry risks:
• Cotton swabs and pointed objects can push wax deeper into the canal or puncture the eardrum.
• DIY irrigation kits without proper technique can cause pain or ear damage, especially if the eardrum is compromised.
• Ear candling and other unproven methods are not medically recommended and may be unsafe.
→ Now Hear This® uses appropriate instruments and infection control protocols to ensure removal is done safely, efficiently, and comfortably.
Signs You May Need Earwax Removal
Professional evaluation is recommended if you experience any of the
following:
• Difficulty hearing or a sensation of fullness in the ear.
• Ear pain, itchiness, or ringing.
• Hearing aids are not functioning properly.
• History of frequent wax buildup or ear discomfort.
If you’re unsure whether earwax is the cause of your symptoms, we can perform a quick assessment and discuss the next best steps.
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