Professional ear cleaning: near me or at home
Professional ear cleaning is an essential aspect of maintaining our hearing health. If you are experiencing sudden hearing loss, ringing in the ears, ear fullness, itchy ears, or ear pain, these could be signs of excessive ear wax in your ears. In this article, we'll explore the importance of professional ear cleaning, its methods, and why it's crucial to avoid risky at-home solutions.
What is professional ear cleaning?
Professional ear cleaning is a procedure performed by a qualified healthcare professional, such as an audiologist or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor. It is the safest and most effective way to remove excess or impacted earwax.
Symptoms of excessive earwax
The buildup of earwax is extremely common, affecting thousands of individuals each week in Australia. Detecting early signs of earwax buildup is essential. Some common symptoms include:
- Itchy ears
- Trouble hearing conversations
- Sudden or partial hearing loss
- Ear pain
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Dark earwax
If you experience these symptoms, it's advisable to schedule a hearing test to determine the root cause of your hearing issues. Whether it's earwax buildup or another cause, timely action is essential.
Earwax can be useful to protect the ear from infections, but it can create a plug. Discover all the possible causes and treatments.
Methods of wax removal
Professional ear cleaning offers several safe and effective methods to remove earwax. These methods are performed by trained experts to ensure your comfort and safety. The main methods of earwax removal include:
1. Irrigation
Irrigation is another widely employed technique for earwax removal. It entails the introduction of room-temperature water into the ear canal to soften and flush out earwax and blockages. The gentle force of the water helps dislodge and remove accumulated wax, offering a safe and effective solution.
2. Manual removal
One of the primary methods for clearing earwax buildup involves manual removal using specialized instruments. These instruments, such as ear curettes, are equipped with small loops or spoons that enable professionals to gently extract earwax and foreign particles. This method can be performed either in a clinical setting or at home under the guidance of a healthcare expert.
3. Microsuction
Microsuction, also known as ear vacuuming, is a highly efficient method for removing earwax. It involves the use of a thin nozzle connected to a suction machine, which, through a gentle vacuuming process, dislodges and effectively removes the earwax. This procedure is often faster than irrigation and is known for its convenience and minimal discomfort.
Benefits of professional ear cleaning
1. Preventing earwax building
2. Ensuring safe cleaning
3. Improved hearing and sound quality
4.Preventing ear infections
1. Using Q-Tips
Cotton buds can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, leading to damage or infection. They can harm sensitive ear structures and cause various issues, including deafness, vertigo, and facial paralysis.
2. Ear candling
This method is ineffective and dangerous. Ear candles can cause burns, damage to the ear, ear infections, and clogs, leading to temporary hearing loss.
Is professional ear cleaning safe?
Professional ear cleaning is a very safe procedure when performed by a qualified healthcare professional. However, there is a small risk of complications, such as ear bleeding and infection. These risks are very rare, and the benefits of professional ear cleaning far outweigh the risks.
How often should I get my ears professionally cleaned?
It varies from person to person. If you have a history of earwax problems or hearing issues, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
Who should consider professional ear cleaning?
- Individuals with a history of earwax impaction.
- Those experiencing hearing loss or reduced hearing clarity.
- People with recurring ear infections.
- Those with discomfort, pain, or pressure in the ears.
Where to get ears professionally cleaned
You can get your ears professionally cleaned at a variety of locations, including:
- Audiologists
- Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors
- Urgent care clinics
- Some retail pharmacies
To find a qualified professional near you, you can search online or ask your doctor for a referral.
Who cleans ears professionally
Professional ear cleaning is typically performed by audiologists or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors. They have the specialized training and equipment to safely and effectively remove earwax without damaging the delicate structures of the ear.
Keep up to date with the latest news and advice on hearing health and hearing aids. Find out everything you need to know.
How to clean your ears at home
Professional ear cleaning is the safest and most effective method for earwax removal. However, in some cases, you might want to keep your ears clean at home. Here's how:
- Use ear cleaning drops and solutions when recommended by a pharmacist or healthcare professional.
- Avoid inserting foreign objects like cotton swabs into your ear canal.
When to clean your ears
Ears are self-cleaning and typically do not require regular cleaning. Earwax serves a protective role. Cleaning should only be considered when earwax causes problems such as itchiness, fullness, tinnitus, hearing loss, dizziness, or pain. Seek professional advice to determine the best solution.
Complications of ear cleaning
Self-administered ear cleaning can damage the eardrum, ear canal, and worsen the wax buildup.
- Never insert anything smaller than your elbow into your ear.
- Avoid ear irrigation at home, as it can lead to ear infections.
With you on your journey to better hearing.
It's time to finally treat your hearing loss. Sign up for a free consultation with a licensed hearing care professional today to determine if you have hearing loss. It’s the start of your journey towards better hearing.
EarPros benefits:
- it's 100% risk free.
- best partner with more than 1.000 stores
Thank you for submitting your request
We will get in touch with you as soon as possible.Specialized advice for hearing aid users
Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for hearing aid users to prevent earwax-related issues. If you experience changes in hearing or symptoms of impacted earwax, consult your audiologist for a check-up.
Find out how to clean your hearing aids. Useful tips on BTE (Behing the Ear), RIC and ITE (In the Ear) hearing aids.
Conclusion on professional ear cleaning
Maintaining ear health is crucial, and professional ear cleaning offers the safest and most effective means of removing excessive earwax. Avoid risky at-home methods, prioritize your hearing, and seek professional help when needed. Your ears, and your hearing, deserve the best care available.
