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Earwax is an oily, waxy substance naturally produced by a special lining in the ear canal.The ear canal runs from the outer ear through to the middle ear. Everyone has ear wax – it is usually light-brown or honeycomb in colour.
Ear wax is our ear’s way of cleaning and protecting itself – its job is to clean and protect the ears by trapping dirt, dust, and germs so they don’t get deeper inside the ear, where they could cause an ear infection.
Ear wax also provides a protective moisturising layer over the ear canal so it doesn’t dry out. Ear wax is actually a sign of healthy ears.
Usually, ear wax naturally moves out of the ear and takes the dirt and dead skin cells with it. Everyday movements of the jaw, like chewing and talking, help with this. You won’t usually notice the wax come out, and it normally washes off when you shower or have a bath.
However sometimes this natural and automatic release of ear wax doesn’t work as effectively as it should.
If ear wax builds up it will put pressure on the eardrum and cause discomfort, and a reduction in your ability to hear.
Other symptoms of ear wax build-up include:
If you’re suffering from any of the above symptoms, contact us at Sydney Hearing Clinic for ear wax management.
DO NOT use or try any of the below to remove ear wax:
All the above can cause damage to the eardrum and ear canal and cause infection
At Sydney Hearing Clinic, our specialist audiologist is widely known for her expertise with micro suction ear wax removal.
For this procedure, the audiologist will use a microscope to examine your ear and determine the amount and exact location of the ear-wax build-up. A very thin medical grade suction tube is then fitted to the end of the low-pressure suction hose to gently suck out the earwax blockage from your canal.
Microsuction ear wax removal does not involve water or irrigation, is not painful, and is the most comfortable and safe method of ear wax removal.
Please note: minimum age for microsuction ear wax removal is 2 years old.
Sydney Hearing Clinic is an independent Australian owned practice.