Although ear wax is naturally produced by the body to protect the delicate inner ear, it can sometimes lead to complications. It isn’t uncommon for people to experience temporary hearing loss when excessive ear wax builds up in their ear canal. This can be frightening and a huge cause for concern, but don’t worry, professional ear wax removal services can help.
For people living in and around Great Baddow, we offer expert ear wax removal at The Hearing Hub. Our audiologists at our Chelmsford clinic can remove the build-up of wax in your ears and many people notice an immediate improvement in their hearing. Below we have explored the connection between ear wax and hearing loss, highlighting when people should book an appointment with an experienced audiologist. Regular wax removal can help to maintain optimal ear health and improve your quality of life.
Understanding Ear Wax
Ear wax is naturally produced by the ear. Its main function is to protect your ears against things like water, dirt and bacteria, and it can help to prevent irritants from reaching the delicate inner ear. Typically, ear wax naturally works its way out of the ear canal, taking with it any trapped dirt.
However, problems arise when wax accumulates faster than it’s being moved out of the ear, leading to blockages. This accumulation can vary quite considerably due to factors like the anatomical structure of the ear. If it’s not managed properly, excessive ear wax can become compacted, making it difficult to remove and potentially leading to discomfort or hearing issues.
How Ear Wax Causes Hearing Loss
When ear wax builds up, it can block the ear canal, which is one of the most common causes of hearing loss. This type of hearing loss occurs when sound waves can’t travel through the ear to the eardrum. People with impacted ear wax might notice that sounds become more muffled and their ears feel full. Some will also experience tinnitus.
In severe cases, ear wax can cause a complete loss of hearing in the ear until the blockage is cleared. Temporary hearing loss caused by ear wax is typically reversible once the build-up is professionally removed, enabling sound to reach the eardrum. It’s important to address any symptoms of hearing loss quickly to avoid long-term damage or discomfort.
Professional Ear Wax Removal
For anyone experiencing symptoms of ear wax build-up, professional ear wax removal is the safest and most effective solution. At our Chelmsford clinic, we specialise in ear health and offer different ear wax removal methods, including microsuction. This method is known for its safety and efficiency, and it involves the use of a gentle suction device to remove the wax without the need for water or invasive instruments. Microsuction is a popular choice for anyone with sensitive ears or conditions that make other methods of ear wax removal unsuitable.
Home Care Tips
While professional ear wax removal is crucial for significant blockages in the ear, there are some things you can do at home to manage ear wax levels and help prevent hearing loss;
- Use a warm washcloth to gently clean the outer ear up to the opening of the ear canal, removing any excessive wax or other debris.
- Avoid using cotton buds or any other small objects when cleaning your ears, as they can push wax deeper into the ear canal.
- Consider using over-the-counter ear drops designed to soften wax if it becomes hard, impacting its ability to naturally move out of the ear.
Arranging Ear Wax Removal in Chelmsford
There is a direct connection between ear wax and hearing loss, and if you’re experiencing hearing difficulties it may be the case that you need to have your ears professionally cleaned by an audiologist. Knowing the symptoms of ear wax build-up and booking an appointment for ear wax removal can help restore your hearing and improve your quality of life.
Here at The Hearing Hub, we can assist you with your hearing issues. We provide effective ear wax removal services and in the majority of cases, an appointment with our team will provide instant relief and immediately restore full hearing. We charge £65 for ear wax removal in Chelmsford, which covers both ears, and appointments typically last between 10-30 minutes. We look forward to assisting you with your hearing issues.