Ear Wax Removal Tullamore & Portlaoise For Adults & Children
At HearMed Acoustic Healthcare, we understand how excessive ear wax build-up can cause you discomfort and impact your overall hearing ability. We offer microsuction ear wax removal and endoscopic microsuction earwax removal for both adults and children. The processes are conducted in our practices conveniently located in both Tullamore and Portlaoise. They are safe and effective procedures to help remove excessive ear wax build-up and restore your hearing capacity.
The Role of Earwax in Your Ear
- Protection and Lubrication: Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a naturally occurring substance produced by the glands in the ear canal. The purpose of this wax is to protect and lubricate the delicate structures of your inner ear. Earwax is composed of a mixture of natural ear wax, dead skin cells, in addition to dirt or debris that may have entered the ear.
- Defence Against Infection: Earwax forms a protective barrier that prevents harmful substances like bacteria, dust, and insects from reaching the sensitive parts of your ear. It acts as a defense mechanism, reducing the risk of infection and keeping the ear canal clean.
- Naturally Self-Cleaning: The production of earwax is part of the ear’s self-cleaning mechanism. As new wax is produced, it pushes the old wax and any trapped debris towards your outer ear. The natural movements of your jaw when you are talking and eating further facilitate the self-cleaning process.
The Microsuction Wax Removal Process
- What is Microsuction? Microsuction is a safe and gentle method of removing excess earwax using a specialised suction device. Unlike other traditional methods that use water irrigation or earwax removal tools, microsuction offers precise control and minimal discomfort to the patient.
- How it Works: During the microsuction wax removal procedure, our experienced audiologist will use a binocular microscope to examine your ear canal and identify the location and extent of your wax build-up. A low-pressure suction device is then used to carefully and precisely remove the excess ear wax. The procedure is quick, efficient, and typically does not require any pre-treatment with ear drops.
- Advantages of Microsuction: Microsuction offers several advantages over other wax removal methods. It is safe, minimally invasive, and does not involve the use of water, reducing the risk of discomfort or damage to the ear. The procedure allows for better visualisation and control, ensuring thorough removal of the excess wax while, at the same time, maintaining the natural lubricating properties of the remaining earwax.
Issues Caused by Excessive Earwax Build-Up
- Conductive Hearing Loss: Excessive earwax accumulation can lead to conductive hearing loss, a condition where sound waves are unable to pass through the ear canal and reach the eardrum effectively. This can result in muffled or reduced hearing, making it difficult to communicate and negatively impacting your overall quality of life.
- Ear Discomfort and Pain: A buildup of earwax can cause discomfort and pain, leading to a sensation of fullness or blockage in the ear. This discomfort may be accompanied by itching, irritation, or a feeling of pressure.
- Tinnitus: The perception of ringing, hissing, buzzing, or other phantom sounds in the ear is called Tinnitus and it can be exacerbated by excessive earwax. The blockage caused by the wax can disrupt the normal auditory pathway and contribute to the perception of tinnitus.
- Increased Risk of Infections: When earwax accumulates and becomes impacted, it can create an environment conducive to the growth of bacteria. The presence of bacteria increases the risk of ear infections, which can cause more pain, inflammation, and potential complications when left untreated.
What is Endoscopic Microsuction Wax Removal?
Endoscopic microsuction wax removal is a medical procedure used to clear earwax (cerumen) from the ear canal. It combines endoscopic visualization with microsuction to safely and effectively remove wax.
Real-Time Visualization:
The clinician watches a monitor showing a real-time video feed from the endoscope, allowing precise and controlled removal of the wax, furthermore the patient can watch the process live on tv as it happens if they wish.
Benefits of Endoscopic Microsuction Wax Removal
- Safe and Precise:
Real-time visualization ensures that the procedure is precise and minimizes the risk of damage to the ear canal or eardrum. - Comfortable for the Patient:
Unlike traditional methods, which might involve inserting instruments blindly, this method allows for a less intrusive experience. - Effective for Complicated Cases:
It’s especially useful for patients with narrow ear canals, perforated eardrums, or other anatomical considerations that make traditional methods difficult or unsafe.
HearMed Acoustic Healthcare’s microsuction wax removal and endoscopic microsuction earwax removal can safely and effectively restore your hearing clarity. Our experienced audiologists use these gentle procedures to remove excess earwax, alleviate discomfort, and reduce the risk of associated issues. Don’t let excessive earwax impede your hearing and well-being. Contact us today to schedule a microsuction wax removal appointment in our Tullamore or Portlaoise practices and experience the relief of clear and unobstructed hearing.
If you have any questions or wish to arrange an appointment, simply complete the contact form below. Alternatively call: Tullamore: 057 934 9388 or Portlaoise: 057 86 38181