Ear Wax

Ear Wax REMOVAL

Why have your ears cleaned and checked by an Audiologist?

Whilst you can opt to try over the counter products to manage wax, or consult with a nurse or doctor, audiologists offering wax management can offer advantages:

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Professional Expertise

Audiologists trained in ear wax removal have a thorough understanding of the ear anatomy and the proper techniques to remove wax without causing harm or injury to the ear. They can conveniently remove the wax whilst checking all other aspects of your hearing condition.

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Prevention of Complications

Improper wax removal attempts, such as using cotton swabs or other objects, can push the wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to blockages or impaction. Trained audiologists can carefully remove wax to prevent complications like ear canal obstructions, pain, and temporary hearing loss.

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Proper Examination

Sometimes, the presence of excessive wax can hinder a comprehensive examination of the ear. By removing the wax, trained audiologists can better assess the ear health, identify any underlying conditions, and provide appropriate recommendations or referrals for further treatment, if necessary.

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Safety and Hygiene

Removing earwax in a controlled clinical setting ensures a hygienic and safe procedure. Audiologists follow strict infection control measures and use specialised tools to remove wax effectively while minimising the risk of infection or injury.

Ear Wax Build-up: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Ear wax is a natural substance produced by the ear to help clean and protect it. Ear wax is a normal occurrence and serves an important role in safeguarding the delicate structures of the middle and inner ear and preventing infection.

However, too much earwax can impact your ear health and cause symptoms such as:

  • Hearing loss
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
  • A feeling of blockage or fullness in the ear
  • Pain or itching in the ear
  • Balance issues and dizziness
  • Blockage of electronic earbuds and equipment
Hearlix model of ear for ear wax
Woman cleaning ears with cotton bud
If you experience any of these symptoms, professional ear cleaning may be beneficial for you. The following individuals, in particular, can benefit from professional ear wax removal:

  • Those who wear headphones or earbuds for extended periods
  • Individuals who use hearing aids
  • People with narrow ear canals
  • Regular users of cotton buds
  • Individuals who frequently wear earplugs

    • Typical Treatments for Ear Wax Buildup

    When it comes to treating wax buildup, there are several common methods available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s explore these options:

    • Over-the-counter ear drops: These drops can effectively soften ear wax, facilitating its drainage. However, it’s important to note that they may require multiple applications over several days. In cases of hard and impacted wax, over-the-counter drops may not completely resolve the issue.
      • Ear irrigation: This procedure involves gently flushing warm water into the ear canal to remove the accumulated wax. However, it’s important to be aware that ear irrigation is typically performed without direct visualisation of the ear canal. This method carries certain risks, including ear canal infection (otitis externa), dizziness, and potential perforation of the ear canal.
        • Ear microsuction and manual removal: In this technique, a professional ear wax cleaner uses a small, vacuum-like device in combination with specialised tools to remove the ear wax. One significant advantage of ear microsuction is that the professional ear wax cleaner can continue to visualise the ear canal throughout the procedure, ensuring safe and precise removal of the wax.

          • Hearlix: your professional solution for wax build up

          At our Balmain Hearlix clinic, Dr. Annemarie and Victoria are specially trained in ear wax removal using microscopic magnification which allows for a thorough examination of the ear canal while effectively addressing wax build-up. This technique provides a safer and more precise approach to ear wax removal.

          During your wax removal appointment, you can expect the following:

          • Review of your recent ear health history
          • Video otoscopy to examine your ear canal for wax and identify any other ear health concerns
          • Safe and effective wax removal using micro-suction or manual removal with a curette (no syringing is used)
          • A final video ear canal examination is provided to show you the clean and healthy state of your ear canal.

          For wax removal in both ears, please allocate approximately 30 minutes for your appointment. A referral is not necessary.

          If your hearing does not improve after wax removal, Dr. Annemarie can proceed with a comprehensive examination of your ear drum mobility, middle ear structures, and hearing assessment.

          Book your wax removal appointment now to ensure optimal ear health and enhanced hearing. Our team at Hearlix is dedicated to providing exceptional care for your hearing needs.

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          Hearlix audiologist Victoria with client
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          The Importance of Early Hearing Checks

          As professional ear wax cleaners, we can’t stress enough why you should get your hearing checked immediately to avoid any further complications. Here are the reasons why you must go for early hearing checks with a professional audiologist in case you face any issues with your hearing:

        • Early Detection:
          When hearing issues are identified, it becomes easy for an audiologist to intervene on time, which can prevent more severe hearing issues or even loss of hearing in some cases.
        • Improved Outcomes:
          Early treatment improves the effectiveness of the interventions, like hearing aids or therapies. This leads to better outcomes.
        • Preventing Complications:
          With a timely hearing check, you can eliminate complications like speech and language delays in children. In adults, a timely hearing check can mitigate cognitive decline or social isolation.
        • Better Communication:
          Early hearing detection helps address hearing issues before they adversely affect communication skills, which can impact social interactions and quality of life.
        • Ensuring Safety and Security:
          Early hearing checks are crucial, as they can help identify hearing problems that might affect safety, for instance, the ability to hear alarms or approaching vehicles.

          • Why have your ears cleaned and checked by an audiologist?

          While you can opt to try over-the-counter products to manage wax or consult with a nurse or doctor, audiologists offering wax management can offer advantages:

        • Professional Expertise:
          Audiologists trained in ear wax removal have a thorough understanding of the ear anatomy and the proper techniques to remove wax without causing harm or injury to the ear. They can conveniently remove the wax while checking all other aspects of your hearing condition.
        • Prevention of Complications:
          Improper wax removal attempts, such as using cotton swabs or other objects, can push the wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to blockages or impaction. Trained audiologists can carefully remove wax to prevent complications like ear canal obstructions, pain, and temporary hearing loss.
        • Proper Examination:
          Sometimes, the presence of excessive wax can hinder a comprehensive examination of the ear. By removing the wax, trained audiologists can better assess the ear health, identify any underlying conditions, and provide appropriate recommendations or referrals for further treatment, if necessary.
        • Safety and Hygiene:
          Removing earwax in a controlled clinical setting ensures a hygienic and safe procedure. Professional ear wax cleaners follow strict infection control measures and use specialised tools to remove wax effectively while minimising the risk of infection or injury.

          • Hearlix: Your Professional Solution for Wax Buildup

          At our Balmain Hearlix clinic, Dr. Annemarie and Victoria are specially trained in ear wax removal using microscopic magnification, which allows for a thorough examination of the ear canal while effectively addressing wax buildup. This technique provides a safer and more precise approach to ear wax removal.

          During your wax removal appointment, you can expect the following:

          ● Review of your recent ear health history
          ● Video otoscopy to examine your ear canal for wax and identify any other ear health concerns
          ● Safe and effective wax removal using microsuction or manual removal with a curette (no syringing is used)
          ● A final video ear canal examination is provided to show you the clean and healthy state of your ear canal.

          For wax removal in both ears, please allocate approximately 30 minutes for your appointment. A referral is not necessary.

          If your hearing does not improve after wax removal, Dr. Annemarie or Victoria can proceed with a comprehensive examination of your ear drum mobility, middle ear structures, and hearing assessment.

          Book your wax removal appointment now to ensure optimal ear health and enhanced hearing. Our team at Hearlix is dedicated to providing exceptional care for your hearing needs.