Ear Wax what is it and why?

Did you know... ear wax is produced to help protect your ears and keep them clean! Ear wax traps debris and stops it going deeper into the ear where it could cause infection. 

The skin in your ears moves wax from the eardrum to the entrance, where it can be wiped away.

Sometimes, the ear's natural motion needs to be supported by wax softening drops, such as olive oil. 

Wax removal may be required and this is where we can help at coastal clarity ear wax removal. 

 The following symptoms can be experienced as a result of ear wax:

• Muffled blocked feeling in the ears
• Fullness sensation in the ear
• Hearing loss or difficulty in hearing
• Tinnitus or persistent ringing in the ear
• Dizziness
• Ear pain and ache
• Itchiness inside the ear
• Interference with hearing aid use (blocking moulds; filters or ear mould tubing)
• Interference with hearing tests or hearing aid fittings

To comfortably remove earwax, it is recommended to soften earwax before the procedure. The easiest way to soften earwax is to use an olive oil spray or ear drops (such as earol). Please ensure that the drops are administered in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.

Using an earwax softener may initially make your earwax expand and lead to a blocked sensation.  Don’t panic it should ease. 

Occasionally people may notice a slight change in hearing as the wax expands. Rarely people may notice irritation of the ears if this occurs stop and speak to a medical professional. 

There is advice on how to administer drops in the FAQ section "How do I get drops in my ears". 

For individuals who wear hearing aids, especially those who have ITE (In The Ear hearing aids) or RIC (Received in the Canal) models, it is not suggested to wear the device straight after putting in the earwax softener. 

The hearing aid device's function can be compromised if olive oil enters the device. So, it is advisable to avoid wearing the hearing device immediately after using olive oil, and it is better to use it overnight.