ear wax consent & faqs at hear pure
What Will Happen?
Firstly, it is necessary to carry out otoscopy, which is an examination of the ear. Ear wax will be removed from your ear using the safest and most appropriate method for the wax observed. The decision is made based on your ear canal size and shape, the consistency of the wax and your medical history.
Two methods of wax removal may be used.
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Wax removal using micro suction: A fine suction tube is carefully inserted into the ear canal while being viewed closely through a microscope or under magnification from a head loupe. Wax is removed by suction from the tube. This procedure can be noisy.
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Wax removal using Irrigation The process is undertaken using an electronic ear irrigation machine which omits a gentle, controlled stream of water, through a hand-held nozzle. The water flushes the wax out of the ear canal and is captured in a container underneath the ear.
Are There Any Risks?
Your Practitioner has undertaken training in wax removal in both methods and is fully qualified and insured. Your practitioner will use best-practice procedures to minimise any risk of harm. However, even when performed with the utmost care, there are risks involved in wax removal.
These risks include:
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damage to skin of the ear canal or the ear drum during the procedure
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infection of the ear canal or other ear structures following the procedure
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temporary reduction in hearing
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temporary dizziness and (rarely) possible sickness or fainting
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triggering of new tinnitus temporary aggravation of existing tinnitus
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temporary irritation to the throat, especially if already dry, tickly or sensitive
What If It Doesn't Work?
The effectiveness of the procedure is based on the consistency of your wax. If you do not pretreat your wax, there is a possibility the wax is too hard to remove and may require a repeat procedure. If this situation occurs the Practitioner will stop the procedure and you will be advised to continue to use a wax softener for a specified number of days and return to have the remainder removed. This is why it is important to have your ears routinely cleaned on an annual basis.
About Your Hearing
As part of your visit to Hear Pure we can screen your hearing. Ear wax is often blamed for hearing loss and it is best practice to ensure you are hearing as well as you can once it is removed. We can then discuss the results and if any further diagnostic tests are required.
After Your Appointment
Until your ears produce more wax to protect the canal, you must keep your ear(s) free from water for 4-5 days after the procedure. To keep the ears dry when washing your hair, showering, bathing or swimming, insert ear plugs or cotton wool coated in petroleum jelly into the outside of the ear canal(s) to act as a protective seal. Frequent wax blockage may be caused by narrow ear canals that easily becomes obstructed. It may be helpful to instill Earol or Olive Oil drops 1-2 times a week and wear ear plugs when in water if you have a recurrent build-up of wax. Do not use cotton buds or cotton wool – poking will only push the wax deeper into the canal and cause problems. Putting anything into your ears after the procedure will most likely cause an ear infection that will need immediate treatment from your GP.