Does Ear Wax Removal Hurt? (And How to Reduce Discomfort)
Does ear wax removal hurt? That is a common fear. The answer is no but it might feel a bit weird, and occasionally uncomfortable depending on the method used or how blocked your ears are. For Ear Wax Removal Gloucester, visit www.earwax.co.uk/ear-wax-removal-near-me/gloucester
What it usually feels like
Microsuction (common method at private clinics) you may experience:
A loud suction noise
A tickling sensation
Possible brief sensitivity if the ear wax is very hard or near the eardrum.
Irrigation (water evacuation) yields:
Warm water in the ear
Pressure changes
Temporary dizziness in some people
It can be uncomfortable if your ear canal is already sore or inflamed, and/or the wax is quite deeply in.
How to reduce discomfort
Some simple tips can help:
In the UK, it is common to recommend drops of baby oil or sodium bicarbonate (for example) before first-line treatment as this can soften hardened wax and give rise to improved hearing in-between time.
Avoid cotton buds. They can force wax further in the ear canal and cause irritation.
If you are getting nervous or your ears are sensitive, let the clinician know. This way, they can slow down for you if needed, take a break and go into the details of what it is that they are doing.
Any previous history of perforated eardrum/grommets /infections/ surgery will influence which method is safest.
When to stop and get advice
Seek medical help if you feel a sharp pain, dizziness (more than usual), bleeding or sudden hearing change while the wax removed or after doing this.
Earwax removal is a procedure most take in their stride and the unblocking of the ear provides instant relief.
