Does your ear feel blocked, muffled or full? Has your hearing suddenly become less clear, or does your hearing aid seem quieter than usual? Sometimes the explanation can be surprisingly simple: a build-up of ear wax.
Ear wax is completely normal and usually does not need to be removed. However, when too much wax accumulates or becomes impacted, professional ear wax removal may be needed. Dr Deepak Kumar, AuD (Doctor of Audiology) provides professional microsuction ear wax removal using a high-precision clinical microscope.
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is naturally produced inside the ear canal. It has an important job. Ear wax helps protect the ear canal by trapping dust and debris and helps prevent the skin inside the ear from becoming too dry. Normally, wax gradually moves out of the ear naturally. The problem occurs when this natural process doesn’t work effectively and wax builds up enough to block the ear canal.
Common symptoms of excessive ear wax include:
However, not every blocked ear or hearing problem is caused by wax. This is why examining the ear properly before removal is important.
Yes. When wax completely or partially blocks the ear canal, sound cannot travel as efficiently towards the eardrum. This can cause temporary hearing loss or make sounds seem muffled.
Many people notice a significant improvement in hearing once obstructive wax has been safely removed. For hearing-aid users, keeping the ear canal clear is particularly important, as wax can also block hearing-aid receivers or earmould tubing and affect hearing-aid performance.
Microsuction is a method of removing ear wax using a specialised suction device while the clinician directly observes the ear canal. Unlike traditional ear syringing or irrigation, microsuction generally does not require water to be flushed into the ear.
The key advantage is direct visualisation. Dr Deepak Kumar performs microsuction using a high-precision clinical microscope, providing a clear, magnified view of the ear canal and wax throughout the procedure. This allows wax to be removed carefully and precisely.
Microsuction is generally considered a safe method of ear wax removal when performed by an appropriately trained healthcare professional. As with any ear procedure, it is not completely risk-free. Some people may experience temporary discomfort, noise, dizziness or irritation during or after the procedure. The ear should therefore be examined first, and the procedure adapted to the individual patient and condition of the ear canal.
Wax-softening drops can sometimes help soften hard or impacted wax and may make professional removal easier. However, you should never insert cotton buds, ear candles, hairpins or other objects into your ear canal.
Rather than removing wax, these can push it deeper, irritate the ear canal or potentially injure the eardrum. If your ear remains blocked or your hearing has changed, it is better to have the ear examined professionally.
Dr Deepak Kumar, AuD (Doctor of Audiology) provides professional ear examination and microsuction wax removal. Using a clinical microscope allows the ear canal and wax to be viewed under magnification during the procedure.
Importantly, if your hearing remains reduced after the wax has been removed, this may indicate that wax was not the only reason for your hearing difficulty. Further hearing assessment can then be considered where appropriate.
If you have a blocked ear, reduced hearing, troublesome ear wax or problems with your hearing aids due to wax, you can arrange an appointment for professional ear examination and microsuction with Dr Deepak Kumar. Sometimes a blocked ear is simply wax. The important thing is to check rather than guess.
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