Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It helps to keep your ears clean, trapping dust, debris, and bacteria, while also protecting the delicate skin inside the ear from irritation caused by water. However, an excessive build-up of earwax can lead to uncomfortable symptoms and, in some cases, more serious health concerns. For those living in Longfield, Dartford, or Gravesend, professional earwax removal services at Hodgson Pharmacy provide an effective solution to earwax-related issues.
Understanding Excessive Earwax Build-Up
Normally, earwax naturally makes its way out of the ear canal and falls away without causing any problems. But for some people, earwax can accumulate in excessive amounts, leading to blockages and discomfort. Several factors can contribute to earwax build-up, including the overproduction of earwax, narrow or misshapen ear canals, and frequent use of hearing aids or earplugs, which can trap wax in the ear.
For individuals experiencing symptoms of excessive earwax, it’s important to understand when professional help is needed, as improper attempts at home can make the situation worse.
Common Symptoms of Excessive Earwax Build-Up
Recognising the signs of earwax build-up is key to preventing more serious issues. Here are some common symptoms that may indicate a blockage or excessive wax:
1. Hearing Loss
One of the most common symptoms of excessive earwax is a gradual reduction in hearing. This can happen because earwax blocks sound waves from reaching the eardrum, causing temporary hearing loss. You may notice sounds seem muffled, and you might have to ask others to speak more loudly or repeat themselves. If left untreated, this issue could persist, impacting your quality of life.
2. Earache or Fullness in the Ear
The sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear is another common symptom. Earwax build-up can put pressure on the ear canal, resulting in discomfort or even pain. This earache may worsen when you chew, yawn, or touch your ear, as the wax blockage shifts slightly within the canal.
3. Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)
Excessive earwax can irritate the sensitive nerves inside your ear canal, leading to tinnitus—a ringing, buzzing, or whooshing sound in the ear. This persistent noise can be particularly distressing for individuals who rely on quiet environments for concentration or sleep. If tinnitus occurs, it’s essential to seek professional assistance to remove the wax and alleviate the symptoms.
4. Dizziness or Balance Issues
In some cases, earwax build-up can affect your balance. The inner ear plays a crucial role in maintaining your equilibrium, and excessive wax can disrupt this balance, causing dizziness or vertigo. If you’re feeling unsteady or experiencing frequent dizzy spells, it could be related to a blockage in your ear canal.
5. Itchiness or Discharge
An itchy sensation in the ear can be a sign of irritation caused by earwax build-up. If the wax is blocking the ear, it may also lead to ear infections, causing discomfort and, in some cases, discharge from the ear. Yellow or brown discharge may indicate a more serious issue that needs immediate attention.
When to Seek Professional Earwax Removal at Hodgson Pharmacy
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s time to consider professional earwax removal. Attempting to remove earwax at home using cotton buds, ear candles, or other methods can push the wax deeper into the canal, worsening the blockage or causing injury to the delicate structures of the ear.
At Hodgson Pharmacy, serving Longfield, Dartford, and Gravesend, we offer expert earwax removal services, including the highly effective ear micro-suction technique. Unlike traditional methods such as syringing, micro-suction is a precise, gentle, and non-invasive procedure that uses a small vacuum device to safely remove wax under direct visualisation with a microscope. This method is particularly suitable for individuals with sensitive ears, ear infections, or those using hearing aids.
Book an Appointment at Hodgson Pharmacy
If you’re suffering from ear discomfort or any of the symptoms mentioned above, don’t hesitate to contact Hodgson Pharmacy for a professional earwax removal consultation. Our trained staff are dedicated to providing safe and effective solutions for earwax build-up, ensuring your hearing and comfort are restored as quickly as possible.
Residents of Longfield, Dartford, and Gravesend can rely on Hodgson Pharmacy’s expertise to handle earwax issues with care and precision. Book your appointment today and experience relief from the discomfort of excessive earwax build-up.
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