What to expect in your earwax removal appointment

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Earwax build-up is a common problem that can cause discomfort and hearing loss. However, it’s important to note that you should not use your fingers or any objects like cotton buds to remove earwax as this can push it in and make it worse.

Here are some safe and effective ways to clean your ears at home:

✓Olive Oil Drops: Put 2 - 3 drops of olive oil in your ear, 2 - 3 times a day. Do this for 3-5 days. It is recommended you use a dropper while lying your head on one side for a few minutes to let the oil work its way through your ear canal(s). Over about 2 weeks, lumps of earwax should fall out of your ear, especially at night when you’re lying down. However, this doesn't always work for everyone. 

DO NOT USE OLIVE OIL WITH A PERFERATED EAR DRUM!

Ear infections are a common problem that can cause pain and discomfort. Most ear infections clear up on their own after several days without the need for medical attention. However, if your infection hasn’t gone away and you’re waiting to see your GP, or if you want to manage the pain of your ear infection during this time, there are things you can do to help.

It’s important to know the type of ear infection you have. There are three parts to your ear (outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear), and each one can become infected with differing symptoms to manage.

Qualified health professionals such as GPS, Audiologists and Ear Care Nurses can confirm if wax is blocking your ears.

Indications that you may have a wax-related blockage can include:

✓Difficulty hearing (things sound quieter than usual).

✓Ear pain/ear ache, tinnitus (a ringing in the ears).

✓Vertigo (dizziness).

✓Your ears may also start to feel 'full' and itchy.

✓If you wear a hearing aid, you may start to notice the hearing aid is whistling more than usual.