Earwax removal is a common practice necessary for maintaining ear health and ensuring optimal hearing.
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal that serves to protect and lubricate the ear. It traps dust, debris, and microorganisms, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. Normally, earwax moves towards the ear opening, where it dries and falls out or is washed away, but buildup, impaction, and improper cleaning methods cause over 2 million individuals to seek treatment for excess earwax and blockages.
While these issues are not often serious, they can be uncomfortable, and embarrassing and cause infection or hearing loss, and at Putney Pharmacy, we are here to help.
Earwax build up can be caused by several factors, leading to discomfort and potential hearing issues if not managed properly.
One of the primary causes is the overproduction of earwax by the glands in the ear canal. This can be due to genetic factors, where some individuals naturally produce more wax than others. Additionally, certain environmental factors, such as living in a dusty or dirty environment, can stimulate the ear’s glands to produce more wax as a protective measure.
Another significant cause of excess earwax is the improper use of objects like cotton swabs, earplugs, or hearing aids. Instead of removing wax, these items often push it deeper into the ear canal, leading to impaction and blockage. This can create a cycle where more wax is produced to try and clear the blockage, exacerbating the problem. Inserting objects can also push wax further into the ear canal, leading to impaction or even damage to the eardrum.
Age can also play a role in earwax buildup. As people get older, the cerumen tends to become harder and less mobile, making it more likely to accumulate and cause blockage.
Skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis can affect the ear canal and alter the production and consistency of earwax. Finally, narrow or unusually shaped ear canals can prevent the natural movement of wax out of the ear, leading to a buildup over time.
Microsuction is a technique that involves using a small, gentle vacuum to remove earwax from the ear canal. This method is performed under direct visualisation using a microscope, allowing the healthcare provider to see the ear canal clearly and remove the wax precisely and safely. Unlike other methods such as ear syringing or irrigation, microsuction does not involve introducing water into the ear, making it a cleaner and more controlled procedure.
Microsuction offers several benefits over traditional earwax removal methods:
Microsuction is a highly effective and safe method for earwax removal, offering numerous advantages over traditional methods. If you are experiencing symptoms of earwax impaction, such as hearing loss, discomfort, or dizziness, consider consulting Putney Pharmacy to see if Microsuction is the right choice for you.
