Have you ever experienced discomfort, impaired hearing, or a constant ringing sensation in your ears? It's possible that excess ear wax build up could be the culprit! Ear wax, while essential for protecting our ears, can sometimes accumulate and cause various issues - and there are many benefits of getting ear wax removed by a Hearing Care Professional.

GPs are no longer offering this service and we want to educate you as to why you should be careful as to who now removes your ear wax. Ear wax removal is being offered by both healthcare and non-healthcare professionals due to lack of regulation. Although they may be competent in their own area of expertise, they provide ear wax removal as an additional service after attending a basic one or two day course and then immediately removing earwax from a clients very delicate ears.

In comparison, our Hearing Care Assistants undertake a comprehensive 3 month course and are under the direct supervision of our expert audiologists, undertaking further ongoing training at The Audiology Academy when required.

We want to inform and educate about the benefits of getting ear wax removed by a Hearing Care Professional – which is not as straight forward as many people consider it to be.

1. Safe and Effective Removal - While many people resort to at-home remedies or DIY techniques for clearing ear wax, it's crucial to understand the potential risks involved. Inserting objects like cotton swabs or makeshift tools into your ears can often push the wax further, leading to complications. Opting for a hearing care professional ensures a safe and effective removal process, reducing the probability of accidental damage to your ears. This damage could be permanent or extremely painful with the non-hearing care professional unable to offer further support or advice.
2. Restored Hearing - Excessive ear wax can cause temporary hearing loss or reduced sound clarity. Seeking professional help ensures that your hearing is accurately tested and the root cause evaluated. A hearing care professional uses specialized equipment and techniques to remove the ear wax, allowing us to then test your hearing accurately without obstruction. This leads to a significant improvement in your hearing ability, enhancing your overall quality of life and communication.
3. Prevention of Complications - Ignoring ear wax build up can lead to severe complications if left untreated. Impacted ear wax can cause pain, dizziness, and tinnitus (ringing sound in the ears). Moreover, it can create an ideal environment for bacterial infections, resulting in discomfort and potential further damage. By visiting a hearing care professional, you can prevent these complications and maintain healthy ears.
4. Expert Guidance and Advice - Hearing care professionals are well-versed in the complexities of ear anatomy and function. During your visit, they can assess your overall ear health, provide personalized advice on maintaining optimal ear hygiene, and guide you on preventing excessive ear wax build up. Their expertise ensures that you receive accurate information and professional recommendations tailored to your specific needs.
5. Care for Hearing Aids Users - For those who use hearing aids, ear wax can pose an even greater challenge. Accumulation of wax can interfere with the proper functioning of the devices, leading to diminished performance, feedback and discomfort. A hearing care professional not only removes the ear wax but also ensures that your hearing aids are in top condition, maximizing their effectiveness.

What to look for when seeking a qualified hearing care professional for your ear wax removal

It is very confusing when searching for an ear wax removal specialist in your local area and so this is a basic checklist for you to use

• Do they have a dedicated hearing or ear clinic with the necessary equipment to fulfil any hearing related issue that may occur when removing your ear wax? Our clinics are recognised as Centres of Excellence by AIHHP (Association of Independent Hearing Healthcare Professionals)
• What qualifications do they hold? As a minimum standard, we recommend that they hold an earcare qualification provided by a reputable, accredited institution. All of our practitioners are either HCAs or fully qualified HCPC registered audiologists, well above the minimum standard.
• What level of insurance do they hold specifically for ear wax removal?
• What other services do they offer? If someone is offering other health related services – such as foot health practitioners. Chiropractors or sports therapy – they may have a basic understanding of ear wax removal but can they competently recognise other hearing issues?

You may also want to read our blog -What To Look For When Choosing a Hearing Company

Conclusion

Maintaining healthy ears is crucial for our overall well-being, and seeking professional help for ear wax removal is a step in the right direction. By relying on a hearing care professional, you can ensure safe and effective removal, restored hearing, prevention of complications, and access to expert guidance. Don't let ear wax affect your daily life – take the necessary steps to maintain healthy ears and enjoy the benefits of optimal hearing!