Imagine waking up one morning with muffled sounds and the feeling that your ears are blocked. It’s a frustrating experience that may be caused by earwax buildup.
While earwax protects our ears, excessive buildup can lead to blockages. In situations where there has been an excessive buildup of earwax, having them removed may be recommended to avoid ear wax impaction which may lead to troublesome symptoms like hearing loss, or even tinnitus. To learn more about impacted ear wax, please follow this link: https://drsomaent.com/conditions/impacted-earwax/.
In this blog post, we explore the safety of earwax removal. In particular, we emphasize more on the advantages of seeking professional care at an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist clinic. Keep reading!
What Cause Ear Wax Buildup and Blockage?
The ear wax is also known as cerumen. It is a waxy substance produced by glands in the ear canal to lubricate the ear and protect it from debris, dust, and bacteria.
However, there are instances when the body just produces more earwax than necessary. This is what may lead to ear wax buildup and blockage.
Ear wax buildup and blockage may also be caused by your ear wax just not being cleared well enough. As earlier mentioned, too much ear wax buildup may lead to a condition known as ear wax impaction. And when your earwax becomes impacted, it can cause symptoms like;
- Hearing loss
- Earache
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Dizziness, and
- A feeling of fullness
Any of these signs should prompt you to see an ENT specialist for ear wax removal in Singapore. An ENT doctor can help you confirm the cause of your symptoms. After confirming the cause, they can help you determine the most appropriate treatment for your situation.
Is it bad to Leave Ear Wax?
Owing to the importance of ear wax, it is natural to not be sure whether you should remove your ear wax or simply let them be. An ENT should advice you appropriately whether you should have your ear wax removed or not.
This is what ENT doctors recommend though; if your ears are functioning properly, you shouldn’t be attempting to remove the ear wax. Just leave them alone. That said, it isn’t bad to leave ear wax.
If your ear wax is causing symptoms though, having them removed would be recommended. And for many people, it can be really tempting to reach for cotton swabs or other DIY methods to remove earwax at home.
If this is what you’re already considering, it’s important that you also understand the potential risks involved. If you remove your ear wax incorrectly or use improper techniques, rest assured that you will most likely only cause more harm than good to yourself. Here are the top risks you should know about before attempting to remove ear wax at home on your own;
- Pushing earwax deeper into the ear canal: This can lead to a more significant blockage. And with a more significant blockage, it would also be difficult for your ENT specialist to see into the ear, something which may lead to potentially dangerous issues going undiagnosed.
- Injury: Inserting objects into the ear can also cause injury to delicate ear structures. These include; the eardrum and ear canal walls.
- Poor cleaning: Also, DIY methods do not always effectively remove all the accumulated earwax. This can prolong the symptoms and increase the risk of infection.
Benefits of Professional Earwax Removal
When it comes to earwax removal, in Singapore, the most effective option is to trust the expertise of an ENT specialist. Your ENT specialists have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of ear conditions.
Like other professionals in the medical field, they use specialized tools and techniques designed specifically for safe removal of earwax. When you visit an ENT specialist for ear wax removal in Singapore, they will carefully assess the nature of the blockage.
During this assessment, they will also identify any underlying issues and provide you an individualized care. The professional tools they use for ear wax removal include suction devices, curettes, or irrigation systems. These allow for precise and gentle earwax removal.
What Happens During Ear Wax Removal?
When you visit an ENT specialist for earwax removal in Singapore, you can expect them to thoroughly examine your ears to evaluate the extent of the blockage. This initial examination is also done to determine the most appropriate treatment approach. The process of ear wax removal in Singapore typically involves several steps which include;
- Examination: The ENT specialist will use an otoscope to examine the ear canal and eardrum, ensuring a clear view of the earwax buildup.
- Method Selection: Based on the examination findings, the specialist will determine the most suitable method for removing earwax. This may involve manual removal with specialized tools, gentle irrigation, or suction.
- Treatment: The chosen method will be applied carefully. The specialist will take utmost care to avoid any harm to the ear structures.
- Follow-up Care: After your earwax removal in Singapore, the ENT specialist may provide post-treatment instructions. They may also recommend preventive measures, or schedule a follow-up appointment if necessary.
When to Seek Professional Ear Wax Removal
In some cases, self-care measures like over-the-counter ear drops may be sufficient to address mild earwax buildup. However, certain scenarios warrant immediate professional attention. These include;
- Severe ear pain or sudden hearing loss
- Continuous drainage or discharge from the ear
- Bleeding from the ear
- History of ear surgery or ear problems
- Presence of foreign objects in the ear
- Earwax blockage in children or individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities
The Bottom Line
When confronted with earwax blockage, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and seek professional care from an ENT specialist. While the allure of DIY methods may be tempting, the risks associated with self-removal are significant.
ENT specialists possess the necessary expertise, tools, and techniques to safely and effectively address earwax buildup, minimizing the chances of complications and providing a superior outcome. Remember, your hearing health is precious, and entrusting it to professionals is the best decision you can make.
Schedule an appointment with an ENT specialist today and experience the benefits of professional earwax removal firsthand. Details:
Dr Soma – Allergy & Sinus ENT Specialist @ Parkway East | Earwax Removal | Sinus Surgery Singapore
321 Joo Chiat Pl,
#05-01 Parkway East Specialist Hospital,
Singapore 427990
+65 6517 9760
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