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Earwax can build up and cause discomfort, but attempting to remove it yourself at home is not recommended. Never insert cotton buds or other objects into your ear canal, as this can push wax further in and damage your ear. If you are experiencing a blocked or uncomfortable ear, book an appointment with your GP or a local audiologist in Kabra for a proper assessment and safe, professional removal.
Trying to remove earwax at home, including with over the counter drops or household products, carries a real risk of infection, dizziness and hearing loss if done incorrectly. The safest option is always to visit a GP or audiologist for professional assessment and removal, such as micro-suction or irrigation performed by a trained clinician.
In Australia, some GP-referred ear related services may be claimed through Medicare; eligibility criteria apply. Many local medical centres and hearing clinics across Queensland and other Australian states and territories offer professional earwax removal services, including here in Kabra. Read on to learn more about understanding your ear wax and how to have it removed safely.
Understanding Ear Wax
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the body to protect and maintain the health of the ear canal. It’s composed of long-chain fatty acids, cholesterol, alcohols, squalene, and dead skin cells. The fatty acids contribute to the waxy texture and form a protective layer, whilst the cholesterol maintains the wax’s consistency and structural integrity. The alcohols inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, and the squalene moisturises the ear canal skin.
Ear wax serves several important functions, including acting as a barrier against dust, debris, and foreign particles, lubricating the ear canal to prevent dryness and irritation, and facilitating the self-cleaning process by trapping and removing debris and dead skin cells. Additionally, ear wax has antimicrobial properties that help inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, and it plays a role in maintaining the skin’s normal health balance . Quantification of earwax substances is currently not possible with statistical accuracy .
The composition and amount of ear wax can vary based on genetic factors and ethnicity amongst Australians, resulting in either a wet, honey-brown to dark-brown type or a dry, grey and flaky type.
Getting Earwax Removed Safely
If you notice a blocked or full feeling in your ear, avoid trying to soften or remove the wax yourself with drops, oils or other products. Never insert cotton buds or sharp objects into your ear canal, as this can damage your eardrum. The safest and most effective approach is a professional assessment by a GP or audiologist.
Ear irrigation and micro-suction are professional procedures that should only be carried out by a trained GP or audiologist using proper equipment. These clinicians can safely assess your ear canal and choose the most appropriate method for you, rather than relying on home irrigation kits or over the counter tools.
Ear wax has natural self-cleansing properties that help carry away trapped dirt, dead skin cells and other particles. Avoid using cotton buds or other objects, as they can push earwax deeper and cause blockages. Schedule periodic professional check-ups with your local GP or audiologist to maintain optimal ear health, and seek prompt medical attention if you experience pain, discharge or sudden hearing loss.
Prevention Measures
Proper prevention of earwax build-up starts with avoiding self-treatment. Micro-suction is a safe procedure to remove excess earwax, performed by an experienced audiologist or GP using specialised equipment; ear irrigation is another option a clinician may use, though it is generally less effective than micro-suction for stubborn build-up. Regular check-ups with an Australian healthcare provider or audiologist are recommended to prevent wax accumulation. Avoid using cotton buds, as they can push wax deeper into the ear canal. By avoiding home treatment and having your ears checked regularly, you can help maintain clear, healthy ears and protect your hearing.
Risks and Precautions
Earwax removal, whether done at home or by a professional, carries certain risks that must be understood. Home removal methods pose a higher risk of infection due to improper technique and uncleanliness. Using foreign objects like cotton buds, keys, or hairpins can also perforate your eardrum and cause physical trauma to your ear canal. Additionally, these methods can push earwax further into your ear, making it harder to remove and potentially causing more serious issues. This can lead to discomfort and pain. Narrow ear canals can contribute to earwax buildup and increase the difficulty of removal. Whilst professional removal is generally safer, it’s not without risks. There’s a small chance of infection, dizziness, vertigo, eardrum perforation, temporary hearing loss, and even exacerbated tinnitus. Proper ear protection and technique minimize the risk of noise damage. To minimise these risks, avoid using foreign objects, be cautious with ear irrigation, and seek professional help if you have a perforated eardrum, hearing aids, or prior ear surgery. Regular ear examinations at your local Australian hearing clinic or GP can help identify earwax build-up before it becomes problematic.
DISCLAIMER: The content on our site is intended for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as an endorsement or recommendation of any treatments or products without a comprehensive hearing assessment. Users should seek professional advice and fully understand any potential side effects or risks before starting any treatment. Products mentioned on our site are not available for purchase by the public without prior consultation with a hearing health expert.