A review of the many potential problems caused by earwax build-up

Earwax and Its Potential Issues

Many of our customers have come back to inform us (and thank us) how our removal of their impacted ear wax has made such a change to their quality of life including the likes of better hearing, better balance, stopping of tinnitus, pain and more. Whelehans Earwax removal service can be booked on the Whelehans website www.whelehans.ie (see top bar when on website)

Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It plays an essential role in protecting the ears by trapping dust, debris, and bacteria while keeping the ear canal lubricated. However, excessive or impacted earwax can cause various health problems, affecting hearing, balance, and overall ear health. Below are some of the issues that earwax build-up can cause.

Hearing Problems

• Hearing Loss: Excessive earwax can block the ear canal, leading to temporary hearing loss. Sound waves struggle to pass through the blockage, making hearing muffled or distorted.
• Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears): A build-up of earwax can create pressure on the eardrum, leading to persistent ringing or buzzing sounds, a condition known as tinnitus. This can be distressing and affect concentration.
• Ear Fullness Sensation: Many people with excessive earwax report a sensation of fullness in the ear, causing discomfort and affecting their ability to hear clearly.

Pain and Discomfort

• Earaches: Impacted earwax can press against the eardrum or ear canal, leading to pain. This discomfort can range from mild to severe, depending on the level of build-up.
• Itching and Irritation: Dry or hardened earwax can cause itching and irritation inside the ear, leading to discomfort and frequent scratching, which can worsen the problem.
• Pressure Build-up: The accumulation of earwax can lead to a sensation of pressure, making the ears feel clogged or heavy.

Balance and Coordination Issues

• Dizziness (Vertigo): The inner ear plays a crucial role in maintaining balance. If earwax build-up affects the eardrum or inner ear, it can lead to dizziness or vertigo, making everyday activities challenging.
• Loss of Spatial Awareness: Blocked ears can disrupt the way we perceive sound and spatial awareness, increasing the risk of falls or accidents.

Increased Risk of Infections

• Bacterial and Fungal Infections: When earwax traps moisture, it creates an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive, leading to infections such as otitis externa (swimmer’s ear) or middle ear infections.
• Ear Drainage: A sign of infection can be pus-like discharge from the ear, which occurs when an infection worsens due to trapped bacteria in the wax.
• Foul Odour: Infected earwax can produce an unpleasant smell, which may indicate a bacterial or fungal infection requiring medical attention.

Problems from Improper Ear Cleaning

• Cotton Swabs and Foreign Objects: Many people use cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects to clean their ears. Instead of removing wax, these objects often push it deeper, worsening the blockage.
• Eardrum Perforation: Aggressive cleaning or inserting objects into the ear can damage the eardrum, leading to pain, bleeding, and possible hearing loss.
• Overuse of Ear Drops: Some people use earwax-softening drops excessively, which can cause irritation or lead to excessive moisture build-up, increasing the risk of infections.

Complications in Certain Groups

• Elderly Individuals: As people age, earwax tends to become harder and more difficult to expel naturally, making seniors more prone to blockages and hearing loss.
• Hearing Aid Users: Hearing aids can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, increasing the risk of impaction and device malfunctions.
• Swimmers and Divers: Water exposure can mix with earwax, creating a sticky substance that is harder to remove, leading to infections.

Whelehans Ear Wax Removal Service (Pricing and Booking)

Ear Wax Removal Service now available to book online at Whelehans Pharmacy. Our qualified nurse Sarah uses painless and non invasive Tympa technology. it only takes a few minutes to get checked and if ear wax blockage, price is €50 to get one ear unblocked or €75 for both ears unblocked. €20 assessment fee is then not charged ( refunded) if wax removal needed.

Ear Wax Removal at Whelehans Pharmacy, Pearse St Mullingar, book at www.whelehans.ie  or call 0449334591