Professional Earwax Removal vs. DIY: What’s the Safest Option?

Earwax buildup is a common and sometimes frustrating issue, but with so many DIY solutions available, it can be tempting to attempt a fix at home. However, many people aren’t aware of the dangers associated with at-home earwax removal methods. DIY techniques can lead to complications, including ear infections or even deeper blockages. In this blog, we’ll explore why professional earwax removal is the safest and most effective option.

The Risks of DIY Earwax Removal

There’s a reason the phrase “don’t try this at home” applies to ear care. When it comes to removing earwax, at-home methods can cause more harm than good. Let’s take a look at some of the most common DIY methods and why they can be dangerous:

• Cotton Swabs: While many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, they often push the wax further into the ear canal, causing blockages and even puncturing the eardrum. The Royal College of Surgeons estimates that around 70% of people who use cotton swabs in their ears end up pushing wax deeper, resulting in impaction or injury.
  
  
• Ear Drops: Ear drops can be helpful when used correctly, but they don’t always break up stubborn wax. If too much is used, or if the wax is impacted, drops may just lead to a temporary softening of the wax that doesn’t clear it completely, often worsening the problem.
  
  
• Ear Candles: Despite their popularity, ear candles are not only ineffective but can be dangerous. The NHS strongly advises against them, as they can cause burns or ear canal injuries and may even push wax further into the ear.
  
  

Why Professional Earwax Removal is Safer

When you have earwax buildup, the safest option is to see a professional. Here are the benefits of opting for professional earwax removal:

• Microsuction: This method uses a small vacuum-like device to gently and safely remove earwax. It is more effective and safer than other methods, preventing further damage to the ear canal and eardrum.
  
  
• Precise and Targeted Care: Professionals have the training and tools to remove wax safely, without causing injury or pushing it deeper into the ear.
  
  
• No Risk of Infection: Improper removal or water exposure can lead to infections. Professionals can ensure the ear is properly cleaned, avoiding complications such as ear infections or trapped moisture.
  
  

A Real-Life Story: How DIY Earwax Removal Led to an Infection

Meet Sarah, a 38-year-old woman from the Midlands. Sarah had been dealing with a sensation of fullness and muffled hearing in her left ear for several days. She tried to use cotton swabs to relieve the feeling, but the discomfort continued. Unsure of what to do next, Sarah started scratching and itching the inside of her ear, hoping to get some relief.

Unfortunately, her efforts didn’t work as she expected. Instead of clearing the earwax, her scratching and further manipulation caused the ear canal to become irritated. The constant friction created a small tear in the skin inside the ear, allowing bacteria to enter. Soon after, Sarah began experiencing pain, swelling, and fluid drainage from her ear—classic symptoms of an ear infection.

Not only was the infection uncomfortable, but Sarah also found it difficult to focus at work due to the pain and reduced hearing in her left ear. After several days of dealing with the issue, she decided to visit Hazelwood Hearcare.

After a quick consultation, Sarah was informed that the earwax had indeed become impacted and was causing the discomfort. Worse yet, her attempts at scratching had led to an infection. The team at Hazelwood Hearcare carefully removed the earwax using microsuction and cleared the infection with the right treatment.

Since then, Sarah has regularly visited Hazelwood Hearcare for professional checkups and earwax removal, avoiding the painful cycle of infection and buildup.

Key Benefits of Professional Earwax Removal:

• No Risk of Infection: Professionals can prevent the possibility of infection or irritation during the cleaning process, unlike at-home methods that may aggravate the condition.
• Safe and Effective: The microsuction technique ensures that earwax is removed safely and effectively, without causing injury to the ear canal or eardrum.
• Long-Term Relief: Professional removal not only clears the ear but also helps reduce the likelihood of future blockages, giving you long-term relief from discomfort.
• Tailored Advice: After your earwax is removed, a professional will offer guidance on how to maintain ear health and prevent excessive buildup in the future.

The Statistics: How Common Is Earwax Buildup?

Earwax buildup is far more common than people realize. In the UK, around 2-3% of the population suffers from impacted earwax. In fact, earwax buildup is one of the most common reasons people visit their GP. According to research by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), earwax problems result in approximately 500,000 GP visits every year in the UK.

Here are some additional key statistics on earwax buildup and ear health:

• 70% of people who use cotton swabs to clean their ears push the wax further into the ear canal, increasing the risk of blockage.
• 12 million people in the UK suffer from earwax buildup to the point where professional earwax removal is needed.
• 5-10% of people who regularly clean their ears may experience recurring earwax buildup that requires professional treatment.

The Best Option: Professional Care at Hazelwood Hearcare

Earwax buildup may seem like a minor issue, but if left untreated or handled improperly at home, it can lead to pain, hearing loss, and infections. At Hazelwood Hearcare, we offer professional, safe, and effective earwax removal using the microsuction method. If you’re experiencing symptoms of earwax buildup or discomfort in your ears, don’t risk further complications with DIY methods—schedule an appointment today.

Key Takeaways:

• DIY earwax removal methods like cotton swabs, ear drops, or ear candles carry significant risks, including ear infections, injury, and further blockages.
• Microsuction is the safest and most effective professional method for removing earwax, offering precise and gentle care.
• Hazelwood Hearcare provides professional earwax removal services to ensure the health of your ears and prevent future complications.
• Don’t let DIY methods risk your ear health—book an appointment today for safe, effective earwax removal.

Book your appointment now and experience the relief of professional earwax removal! Call us at 07436717303 or visit Hazelwood Hearcare.