If you've ever experienced the discomfort caused by an earwax buildup, you know that managing this naturally occurring substance is a crucial aspect of ear health. At Hearing Solution Center in Charlotte, NC, we offer professional earwax removal services, ensuring your ears are clean and your hearing is unobstructed. 

Let’s look at earwax removal, the issues it resolves, and the safe methods we employ to keep your ears in excellent health.

Understanding Earwax 

Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a substance produced by the glands in your ear canals. 

Some may see it as a nuisance, but earwax is actually a sign of a healthy ear. It plays a vital role in maintaining the health of your ears by trapping dust, dirt, and other debris, effectively preventing debris from reaching the sensitive inner part of the ear. This sticky, waxy oil also lubricates the ear canals, preventing them from drying out and causing itchiness or infections. 

What Happens if You Have Too Much 

While earwax serves as an important protective barrier, too much of it can lead to complications.

Excess earwax can cause symptoms like:

• a feeling of fullness or stuffiness in the ear 
• earaches 
• tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• temporary hearing loss

This issue, known as cerumen impaction, can affect individuals of all ages but is particularly common in older adults. That’s why so many older adults complain that their ears feel clogged. 

If left untreated, too much earwax can lead to infections, resulting in severe pain, discharges from the ear, and fever-like symptoms.

The Dangers of DIY Earwax Removal

The internet is filled with at-home remedies for earwax removal, but you need to understand that some of these methods can do more harm than good. 

For instance, using cotton swabs to clean the ears is a common practice, but it can actually push the wax deeper into the ear canal, worsening the obstruction. Worse still, cotton swabs or any foreign object can inadvertently damage the delicate inner structures of the ear, particularly the eardrum. 

That’s why we always recommend seeking professional help for earwax removal.

When Professional Earwax Removal Is Needed

If you're experiencing persistent discomfort in your ears or feel that your hearing is impaired due to earwax buildup, it's time to consult a professional. 

Audiologists are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions related to ear health, including excessive earwax. They have the necessary tools and knowledge to safely and effectively remove earwax without causing damage to your eardrum or ear canal.

Our Two Techniques for Professional Earwax Removal

At the Hearing Solution Center, we use two primary methods for professional earwax removal: manual removal and irrigation. Both methods are safe, effective, and performed by our expert audiologists with the utmost care for your comfort.

Manual Earwax Removal

Manual earwax removal is often used for mild earwax issues. During this procedure, our audiologists use a curette, a small scoop-like instrument, to gently extract the earwax. A special light and magnifying glass are used to ensure a clear view of the ear canal and protect the delicate inner structures of the ear.

Irrigation Earwax Removal 

Another common method for earwax removal is irrigation. This process involves flushing the ear with a controlled stream of water to dislodge and remove the excess earwax. The water temperature is maintained at a comfortable level, eliminating any discomfort. ‘

At the Hearing Solution Center, we use a sophisticated device called an Earigator for this procedure, which combines the functions of an otoscope and irrigation into a single unit, ensuring a safe and effective earwax removal experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Earwax and Its Removal

In this section, we address some of the most common queries related to earwax and its removal.

Q: What causes earwax buildup? 

A: Earwax buildup can be caused by various factors, including narrow ear canals, aging, living or working in dusty environments, and frequent use of hearing aids.

Q: Is ear wax removal safe? 

A: Yes, when performed by a professional audiologist, earwax removal is safe and effective.

Q: Will ear wax removal improve my hearing? 

A: In most cases, earwax removal will improve hearing by eliminating the blockage that hinders sound transmission. However, if you have any pre-existing hearing issues, you might still experience some degree of hearing loss.

Q: Is ear wax removal painful? 

A: Earwax removal can cause some mild discomfort, but the process is generally not painful.

Q: Can I remove my own earwax at home? 

A: While there are safe methods to soften earwax at home, deep or complete earwax removal should always be performed by a professional to prevent potential damage to the ear.

At Hearing Solution Center in Charlotte, NC, your ear health is our priority. Our team of skilled audiologists is dedicated to providing you with the best care possible. 

If you're experiencing discomfort due to earwax buildup, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. Remember, your ears deserve the best care, and entrusting them to our experts is the first step towards ensuring their health and your overall well-being.