What you can expect from ear syringing

Published 22 January 2020  | Updated 18 December 2022  | 2 mins read

An audiologist performing water irrigation on a patient for ear wax removal.

Ear wax, known as cerumen, helps keep our ears clean and infection-free. Most of the time it makes its way out of our ears on its own, but occasionally it gets stuck in the ear canal and causes ear wax build-up.

You might have ear wax build-up if you experience some or all of these symptoms:

  • Earache
  • Trouble hearing
  • Itchiness
  • Dizziness
  • Ear infection
  • Tinnitus

As we all know, using cotton buds to remove ear wax (whether you have ear wax build up or not) is a bad idea. It can make the situation much worse.

How to remove ear wax

If you want to get your ear wax removed, ditch the cotton buds and call your local THCP practice.

While the most common method for ear wax removal has traditionally been syringing, technology has moved on. We now offer water irrigation, which is safer, gentler and more effective.

In this newer method, a stream of body-temperature water is flushed into the ear canal to remove any debris – it’s a great method for removing large quantities of wax that may have built up over time.

The procedure may involve slight discomfort, but this is nothing to worry about and should subside as soon as the treatment is over. Your audiologist will also advise you on post-procedure ear care.

Alternative methods

However, water irrigation isn’t always the best option for everyone, so we also offer two alternative methods for ear wax removal:

Manual removal

A tool called a Jobson Horne is used to manually remove small amounts of ear wax from the entrance of the ear canal.

Microsuction

A new technique, where a very thin suction tube is used to vacuum up any wax or other debris inside the ear canal.

For more information on our ear cleaning treatments, including up to date prices, take a look at our dedicated webpage.

Book an appointment with us today and one of our expert audiologists will advise you on the best method for you. You will also receive a Free Hearing Assessment to check your overall hearing health. Book online, over the phone on 0800 52 00 546, or just pop into your local THCP practice.