FAQ'S

WHAT IS EAR WAX AND WHY DOES IT CAUSE A PROBLEM?

Ear wax is a normal and natural substance that simply lubricates and protects the ear canal from infections and foreign bodies. Problems can happen when this normal migration of wax is disrupted, or slowed e.g. wearing a hearing aid. Alternatively wax can build up by itself without explanation, causing a plug in the ear canal which can affect hearing. When such problems occur the only way to alleviate the wax is by microsuction or syringing

WHY IS MICROSUCTION  BETTER THAN SYRINGING ?

Syringing is an option however there are some risks associated with this, such as :

• Damage to the eardrum due to high pressure water

• Wax can be pushed further into the ear by an unsuccessful syringing

• Dizziness associated with the high pressure of water

• Cannot be done if you have a perforated ear drum

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Microsuction is regarded as the gold standard of ear wax removal and the most likely to remove all wax present as the ear drum remains visible throughout the procedure with no introduction of messy water

IS MICROSUCTION SAFE?

Yes. There can be some noise whilst carrying out the procedure however there is no pain or discomfort involved and no direct contact with the ear drum. All procedures are carried out by our professionally trained audiologists. It may feel strange and those who have sensitive ears may experience a little discomfort, however this is normal and would also occur with syringing

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

On average the treatment takes between five and ten minutes for examination and clearance of both ears

DO I NEED TO DO ANYTHING BEFORE I ATTEND MY APPOINTMENT?

Using a few drops of olive oil or an alternative product to help soften the wax can be helpful before attending, although this is not essential. However if you have a perforated ear drum this is not recommended, BUT having a perforated ear drum is in no way a contraindication to having microsuction, in fact it is the only way to have ear wax removed