1. Earwax Buildup and Removal
Earwax is a natural substance that cleans, lubricates, and protects your ears. It traps dirt, dust, and hair. It repels water. And it inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Earwax buildup is very common. Impacted earwax and resultant ear canal blockages can cause hearing loss, dizziness, headaches and coughing, as well as appear unsightly. It is also very difficult to safely remove and fix on your own - never use cotton buds for deep ear canal cleaning! It is much safer to seek treatment by a trained professional.
As a NMC-Registered Prescribing Nurse Practitioner, my preferred method of earwax removal is by Microsuction, which is a procedure that uses a small suction tube to remove the earwax. It is considered a safe and effective way to remove most earwax blockages.
How it works:
(1) I will assess each of your ear canals using an Otoscope (the handheld magnifying torch device shown above);
(2) I will then use a small suction probe, attached by a tube to a low-pressure suction device, to carefully and gently remove the earwax;
(3) I will then use the otoscope again to check your ears after the procedure, and I will repeat these three steps if necessary.
The benefits of Microsuction:
(1) It's gentler than Ear Syringing, which involves squirting liquid into the ear (although I will offer this treatment if you have extremely hard and stubborn earwax);
(2) It's more precise than ear syringing for removing most earwax deposits (although again, syringing may be the best option for you, depending on your particular type of earwax buildup and/or blockage);
(3) It's the fastest way to remove earwax.
Whichever option is best for you, you can be sure myself and my highly trained assistants will ensure a quick and painless experience for you.
