About
A word about Ear Wax
What is ear wax?
Ear wax (cerumen) is a natural bodily substance that is produced in order to clean and protect your ear from debris, foreign bodies and infection.
Is Ear Wax Normal?
A little amount of wax in your ears is normal and healthy and generally, ear wax should be left alone. However, in some cases, a build up of ear wax can be problematic and the only solution is to have the wax professionally removed.
When Is Ear Wax A Problem?
A build up of ear wax can not only be uncomfortable, but it can cause other symptoms such as:
• Hearing loss,
• Tinnitus,
• Dizziness,
• Itchiness,
• Sensation of fullness in the ears.
Is This A Service I Need?
You will likely want wax removal if you consistently use ear plugs, air pods, hearing aids, cotton buds etc. These products send a message to your brain that a foreign object is present. Your brain then sends a message to your ears to clear the foreign object away. The way your ear is programmed to do this job, is to make ear wax. This is your ears natural way of cleaning itself. However, if your ear is consistently blocked with ear plugs, air pods, hearing aids etc the wax has nowhere to leave your ear. The ear wax then builds up and becomes impacted and obstructive. This is when you will likely need wax removal intervention.
Some people naturally make more wax than others.
Some people suffer from tinnitus, itchiness, irritation in their ears and find wax removal alleviates these symptoms.
If any of these circumstances apply to you, ear wax removal would be a procedure you may want to consider.
Clinics are held at Horfield Health Centre, Lockleaze Road, Horfield BS7 9RR
An appointment take approximately 45 mins and includes an otoscopy, which examines your ear canals and ear drums using specialist equipment.
FAQs
What is Microsuction?
Microsuction is a gentle and effective procedure using a medical suction pump to remove wax from the ear canal. It is the safest and most effective way to remove wax build up. It is generally painless, but you may hear cracking or squeaking noises during the procedure.
Are there any home remedies I can Try?
The general advice from any qualified Audiologist would be to leave your ears well alone and seek professional guidance from your GP, an ENT specialist or another Audiologist before you attempt any home remedies.
Are there any side effects to wax removal?
As with any medical procedure there can be some minimal side effects, these may include earache or dizziness. Some severe, but very rare, complications could include infection or damage to the ear drum.
How much will it cost?
Wax Removal is a fixed price of £55. This is for one ear or both ears.
There is a £20 consultation fee in the event that no wax needs to be removed. The consultation fee includes medical history, examination of your ear, video otoscopy and ear management.
What happens if the wax cannot be removed?
I will discuss your personal case to see what steps need to be taken next. This will be based on individual circumstances. If it is clear that you have followed our advice and used ear drops 3-5 days before your appointment and the wax can still not be removed, you will be offered a follow up appointment free of charge.
I will discuss your test results and options.
You will likely want wax removal if you consistently use ear plugs, air pods, hearing aids, cotton buds etc.
A word about Me
I have a long history in Audiology. I studied and obtained BSc (Hons) Audiology at Swansea University and am registered with the Academy for Health Care Science incorporating the Registration Council for Clinical Physiologists.
Once qualified, I worked in Adult Audiology at Leeds General Infirmary and then went on to Locum at various Hospitals across England for a number of months. I Finally decided to settle in Bristol, specialising in Paediatric Audiology.
I have over 14 years clinical experience in NHS settings and have built professional relationships with ENT Consultants, Audiological Scientists, Speech and Language Therapists, Teachers of the Deaf, and Hearing Therapists. My clinical experience, degree of training and network of colleagues make me an expert in my field. I pride myself on quality of care, understanding the difference I can make to an individual’s quality of life through my Audiology skills.
My Audiological knowledge and expertise make me an obvious choice for your ear wax removal.
RCCP: 61269
Some people naturally make more wax than others.
My Mission
To safely and gently remove wax from your ears. To provide provide expert consultation and advice, with professional and safe management of problematic ear wax in order to help relieve you of your symptoms.