Effective Ear Cleaning Services in Edmonton
Many of us know the feeling of scratching an ear itch and feeling wax in our ears or taking out an earbud to see wax on the tip. Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the glands in the ear canal. It plays an essential role in keeping the ears clean by trapping dust, debris, and bacteria. However, excessive earwax buildup can cause discomfort, hearing difficulties, and infections. Proper ear cleaning is necessary to maintain ear health while avoiding potential complications. Where does this wax come from, and what should we do?
Call our team at Wild Rose Audiology Clinic Ltd. to schedule your hearing test and ear cleaning in Edmonton.
What Is Ear Wax?
Ear wax is a standard product in the ear canal that consists of keratin and cerumen (oily secretions created by glands within the ear canal. How much wax, wax consistency, and wax colour can vary from person to person.
Why Do We Have Ear Wax?
There are various theories as to why we produce ear wax. The most common theory is that wax protects and cleans our ears. The wax in our ears provides a protective layer to the sensitive skin in our ear canal. Wax is a lubricant for the ear canal, reducing dryness or itchiness. It is not uncommon to see people mention itchy ears when they use Q-tips to remove the natural lubricant from their ears. As a bonus, wax helps the ear by cleaning it; Wax moves the dead skin toward the entrance of the ear canal, taking any dust or debris with it.
Why Do We Get a Build-up of Ear Wax?
The reason we get a build-up of earwax or impacted earwax can vary from person to person. Commonly, we see that individuals with “hard wax” are more likely to be affected by the wax not moving as quickly towards the ear canal. Some individuals have small or curvy ear canals, resulting in the wax being “trapped behind corners,” which can be difficult for someone to remove independently.
Side Effects of Too Much Ear Wax
Overall, keeping the ear canals healthy and dry is crucial to managing the condition of your ears. Clean ears help prevent problems when the ear canals become too wet or plugged with earwax.
How to Take Care of Your Ears
Here is how you can take care of your ears:
- Avoid the use of Q-Tips: using Q-Tips can cause wax to be pushed further in the ear resulting in compacted wax that can be difficult to remove. You also risk harming delicate middle ear structures if Q-tips are not used properly. Instead to clean the ear we recommend using a soft towel to wipe down the outside of the ear after a shower.
- Consult your family physician or audiologist: Before using any wax softening/removal remedies. You want to be sure before you try to remove the wax that there are no other concerns with the ear such as irritation or infection. It may be the case that your earwax has hardened in the ear resulting in it being difficulty to remove. Your overseeing clinician may recommend softening the earwax before removing. Always consult before placing something in your ears.
- Dry outer ear: if your find that your outer ear has become dry, try using a drop of mineral oil to sooth the skin of the ear.
How to Safely Clean Your Ears
The safest way to clean your ears is to let the earwax naturally migrate out of the ear canal. In most cases, the ear cleans itself without the need for intervention. However, if there is excessive wax buildup, consider professional assistance. Wild Rose Audiology Clinic Ltd. in Edmonton provides safe and effective ear cleaning services to remove excessive wax without damaging the ear canal.
Wax Removal Strategies that Clinicians May Use
Here are some wax removal strategies that clinicians may use:
- Curette: A curette is a small plastic scoop audiologists use to remove wax in the canal gently.
- Flushing: Flushing with water can be done at home by the client or in the clinic by a trained audiologist or doctor. If done at home, there is the risk of pushing the wax deeper into the canal against the eardrum, which can cause discomfort. The benefits of having a trained professional flush your ear include ensuring the correct water temperature and pressure and maintaining the health of the eardrum.
- Suction: This is only done by trained audiologists or Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists. Suction can effectively remove earwax when traditional methods like curettes and flushing cannot be used.
If you think you have impacted or bothersome wax in your ears, please contact us to discuss your options for wax removal.
How to Protect Your Ears
To maintain ear health, consider the following precautions:
- Avoid inserting objects: Cotton swabs, hairpins, or other small objects can damage the ear canal and eardrum.
- Keep ears dry: Excess moisture can increase the risk of infections. Use earplugs when swimming and gently dry your ears after showering.
- Use hearing protection: Wear ear protection to prevent hearing damage if exposed to loud noises.
- Schedule regular checkups: If you have a history of earwax buildup or hearing issues, regular checkups at Wild Rose Audiology Clinic Ltd. in Edmonton can help ensure optimal ear health.
For professional ear cleaning in Edmonton, contact Wild Rose Audiology Clinic Ltd.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about ear cleaning in Edmonton:
How Can I Safely Clean My Ears?
Let earwax naturally exit the canal. Wipe the outer ear with a damp cloth or use ear drops to soften the wax. Avoid cotton swabs, as they can push wax deeper. Seek professional care if needed.
Why Is Ear Cleaning Important?
Excess wax can cause blockages, discomfort, and hearing loss. Regular cleaning prevents these issues and maintains ear health.
How Often Should I Clean My Ears?
Most people do not need frequent cleaning. If you experience buildup, consult a professional.
How Can I Protect My Ears?
Avoid inserting objects, keep ears dry, use hearing protection, and schedule checkups when necessary.
No content on this page should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
Professional Ear Cleaning in Edmonton
We provide safe and effective ear-cleaning services to help you maintain optimal ear health.