Ear wax isn’t something to be concerned about, it’s a natural substance produced by the ear. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not a result of poor hygiene and its primary function is to protect the inner ear from dust, debris and bacteria. However, excessive ear wax can lead to a variety of issues, such as hearing loss, ear infections and tinnitus.
Given the discomfort a build-up of ear wax can cause, some people are tempted to try over-the-counter ear wax removal kits to get some relief. While these products may seem convenient, they are not always the best choice and it’s more beneficial to visit an audiologist. Here at The Hearing Hub, we don’t recommend any over-the-counter solutions and you should book an appointment at our Woking clinic if you’re experiencing ear problems in the Ripley area.
Below we have delved into the risks associated with over-the-counter ear wax removal options.
Possible Risks and Infections
Just like any other over-the-counter medical product, ear wax removal solutions come with a risk of adverse reactions. Some people may experience irritation, allergic reactions or even temporary hearing loss when using them. Even if you read the instructions and side effects on the packaging, you don’t know how your body will react to the treatment.
The majority of over-the-counter ear wax removal solutions come with a risk of infection. Improper usage or lack of sterilisation can introduce more bacteria into the ear canal, leading to infections that may require antibiotic treatment. In some cases, these infections can become severe, needing further medical intervention.
No Professional Guidance
One of the major drawbacks of using over-the-counter ear wax removal kits is that they come with no professional guidance. Self-diagnosis and treatment can result in improper use of the product, potentially leading to ear injuries or worsening of existing ear conditions. An audiologist can accurately assess the severity of your ear wax buildup and suggest the most suitable removal method or treatment option for your condition.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Over-the-counter ear wax removal options often adopt a ‘’one-size-fits-all approach, offering generic solutions for a problem that may require more customised treatment. The ear canal differs from person to person and what works for one might not be effective for another. Not to mention, some people may have unique medical conditions, such as perforated eardrums, that make certain over-the-counter treatments very unsafe.
Many who use over-the-counter ear wax removal products report inconsistent results. How effective these products are can vary and in some cases, they may not work at all. This lack of reliability means you may end up spending money on multiple solutions without achieving the desired outcome. You may end up needing to seek professional treatment anyway.
Visit a Clinic for Ear Wax Removal in Woking
While over-the-counter ear wax removal solutions may seem like a quick and convenient option, given their limitations and risks, it’s always beneficial to book an appointment with an audiologist. Getting an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is often the safer and more effective route. Tried and tested ear wax removal methods like ear wax syringing and microsuction can help to restore optimal ear health. They offer a much more reliable and thorough approach to ear wax removal.
When searching for a clinic that provides ear wax removal near Ripley, our team at The Hearing Hub is the best to contact. At our Woking clinic, we offer a full spectrum of ear wax removal methods and depending on the consistency of your ear wax, we will use a combination of microsuction, ear irrigation and instrumentation to provide instant relief from your ear problems.
If you have any questions about what an appointment with our audiologists entails, don’t hesitate to contact us today. You can call us on 0330 111 9992 and we will happily provide you with any additional information you may require about ear wax removal.