Ear wax, or cerumen, is a naturally occurring substance in the ear canal that helps protect the ear by trapping dust, debris, and preventing infections. However, when it accumulates excessively, it can lead to hearing problems, discomfort, and other issues, making removal necessary.

The prevalence of earwax impaction is higher in older people, especially those aged 50 years and older. As a person ages, the cerumen glands atrophy, causing the earwax to become drier. Also, hair in the ear canal becomes coarser with age, leading to a higher rate of impaction.

Hearing loss due to earwax buildup can significantly impact residents' quality of life, leading to isolation and cognitive decline. Regular removal helps improve communication and overall health.

At Clear Ear Studio, we utilise gentle ear irrigation with warm water and specialised tools for manual extraction where necessary.

Ear wax removal is typically painless. In fact, most patients experience relief from discomfort and improved hearing following the procedure.

When performed by a trained professional, ear wax removal is generally safe. However, there may be a slight risk of infection, injury to the ear canal, or perforation of the eardrum if not done correctly.

The frequency of ear wax checks varies from person to person. Some individuals naturally produce more ear wax and may require more frequent checks every 3 to 6 months, while others may not need as frequent evaluations. It's advisable to consult with our specialists for personalised recommendations based on your needs.

If the following are present in your medical history then, unfortunately, ear irrigation with the method used at Clear Ear Studio is not suitable.

• Previous ear surgery within the last 18 months

• A current ear infection or an ear infection in the last 6 weeks

• History of a perforated ear drum

• A cleft palate or repaired cleft palate.

• Current episodes of Vertigo/Meniere's disease

• Cases where a grommet is in place