What is the purpose of ear irrigation?
Ear irrigation is a routine procedure used to remove excess earwax, or cerumen, and foreign materials from the ear. The ear naturally secretes wax to protect and lubricate the ear as well as to keep debris out and hinder bacterial growth.
What are the Benefits of Irrigation Ear Cleaning?
- Safer Than Syringing. Earwax Removal by irrigation is a very safe method of ear cleaning. ...
- Usually Quick Removal. Irrigation earwax removal is normally a quick process, usually lasting no longer than thirty minutes an ear.
- Really Gets It All.
How effective is ear irrigation?
Ear irrigation can be an effective earwax removal method for people who have a build-up of earwax in one or both of their ears. Excess earwax can lead to symptoms that include hearing loss. Although a person can make an ear irrigation kit to use at home, it may be safest to buy and use a kit from a store or online.
Ear preparation
If the wax is hard, you will be required to soften it for the best results
Choice of products: OTC drops-otex, cerumol- all contain hydrogen peroxide
Bicarbonate soda 5% drops- possible irritant
Olive oil
Almond oil avoid if you have nut allergy
How do you irrigate an ear?
Ear irrigation process
- If the wax is hard, you will be asked
- Once the wax is softened, use the syringe filled with water (room temperature or slightly warmer) or a water and saline mixture to flush out the wax.
Is ear syringing the same as ear irrigation?
Ear Irrigation is still most commonly known as syringing; however irrigation is actually a more recent procedure that has replaced the old-fashioned technique of ear syringing. It is a low-pressure flow of water, using a specialised irrigator, to gently remove the wax blockage.
How often should ear irrigation be done?
The key is to use these methods sparingly because they can remove too much earwax and dry out the sensitive skin of the ear canal. Aim for no more than once a day until the excess wax is gone, but preferably only one or two times a week. But generally can be done in one treatment.
How long does ear irrigation take?
How long does It take to Irrigate an ear? Irrigation is typically a safe and relatively comfortable method of earwax removal. Most professionals can complete the entire process in about 30-45 minutes or less per ear.
Do doctors do ear syringing?
People suffering from a build-up of ear wax are not entitled to have their ears syringed on the NHS in England, a government minister has confirmed. Edward Argar said it was no longer one of the core services GPs are obliged to provide.
What Issues can wax build up cause a patient?
- Reduced hearing
- Pain
- Dizziness
- Tinnitus
- Itching
- Otitis Externa
- Social isolation
What are the side effects of ear syringing?
Modern ear syringing is safe, but as with most medical procedures, there are risks. These include the risk of ear infection (the most common risk), a perforated eardrum, vertigo, and temporary deafness. Common side effects of ear syringing include temporary dizziness, discomfort or pain, and tinnitus.
Can you shower after ear syringing?
it is important to keep your ears dry for a minimum of 4-5 days after treatment. To keep your ears dry when you are washing your hair, showering, bathing or swimming, insert ear plugs or cotton wool coated in petroleum jelly into the outside of the ear canal to act as a protective seal.
Is it normal to feel dizzy after ear syringing?
Ear irrigation can be uncomfortable, but should not be painful. Lukewarm water is squirted into the ear canal and this dislodges the plug of wax. Some people feel dizzy and should sit down for a while after the procedure. Rarely, ear irrigation can cause serious damage to the eardrum.
Ear irrigation cannot be carried out when:
- Informed consent not obtained and NSCP consent form signed for procedure
- Patient has had previous problems with procedure in the past
- Hx of otitis media in the past 6 months
- Any form of ear surgery in the past 18 months and NOT been discharged from care of ENT
- Perforation or Hx of mucus discharge in the past 12 months
- Cleft palate repaired or not
- Presence of acute otitis externa
Prices for Ear Irrigation
Ear Irrigation consultation £20.00
Ear Irrigation consultation & Ear wax removal for 1 ear £40.00
Ear Irrigation consultation & Ear wax removal for 2 ears £60.00
