Ear wax is a normal and useful substance. It helps protect the skin inside the ear canal, traps dust and supports the ear’s natural cleaning process. However, wax can sometimes build up and cause symptoms such as muffled hearing, a blocked sensation, earache, ringing in the ear or mild dizziness.

When this happens, many people reach for cotton buds. Although they may seem like a quick solution, cotton buds can push wax further into the ear, irritate the delicate skin or cause an injury to the ear canal or eardrum. For suitable patients, microsuction can provide a controlled way to remove troublesome ear wax without placing an object deep into the ear.

Why cotton buds can make ear wax worse

The ear canal is designed to move wax gradually towards the opening, where it can be wiped away safely. Inserting a cotton bud can interrupt this process and compress wax against the eardrum. This may make the blockage harder to remove and can worsen symptoms.

Cotton buds may also:

  • Scratch or inflame the sensitive skin lining the ear canal
  • Cause pain, bleeding or infection
  • Push foreign material deeper into the ear
  • Damage the eardrum if inserted too far or suddenly moved
  • Leave fibres behind in the ear

It is safest to clean only the outer part of the ear with a soft cloth. Nothing should be inserted into the ear canal, including cotton buds, hairpins or the corners of towels.

What is microsuction ear wax removal?

Microsuction is a professional ear wax removal technique. The practitioner uses magnification and a gentle suction device to remove wax from the ear canal. Small instruments may also be used where appropriate. The procedure is carried out under direct vision, allowing the practitioner to work carefully and avoid unnecessary contact with the surrounding skin.

Unlike ear irrigation, microsuction does not involve flushing water into the ear. This can be helpful for people who may not be suitable for water-based removal, although a professional assessment is still essential before treatment.

Microsuction is often completed in a short appointment. You may hear a loud or unusual noise from the suction device, and some people notice temporary dizziness or sensitivity during or shortly after the procedure. These effects usually settle quickly, but you should tell the practitioner if you feel uncomfortable at any stage.

When microsuction may be a safer option

Microsuction may be considered when ear wax is causing troublesome symptoms and has not cleared naturally. It may be particularly useful when a controlled, water-free technique is preferred or when previous attempts to remove wax at home have not worked.

A qualified practitioner should examine the ear before deciding whether microsuction is appropriate. This helps identify the position and amount of wax and check for signs that symptoms may have another cause. Treatment may need to be postponed or referred to another healthcare professional if the ear appears inflamed, injured or infected.

Microsuction is not automatically suitable for everyone. Tell the practitioner before your appointment if you have, or have had:

  • A perforated eardrum or a suspected perforation
  • Grommets or other ear surgery
  • Recent ear surgery or an ear injury
  • Severe ear pain, discharge or bleeding
  • An active ear infection or significant inflammation
  • Marked dizziness or balance problems

Some people may need advice from their GP, an ear, nose and throat specialist or another appropriate healthcare professional instead. A private ear wax removal service should not be used as a substitute for assessment of unexplained or persistent hearing loss.

Preparing for an ear wax removal appointment

In some cases, softening drops used for a few days before an appointment can make wax easier to remove. Your pharmacist or practitioner can advise whether this is suitable and which product to use. Do not use drops if you have been told that you have a perforated eardrum, unless a healthcare professional has specifically advised you to do so.

Do not try to remove the wax yourself immediately before your appointment. Cotton buds and other objects can move the wax deeper or make the ear canal sore, which may make professional removal more difficult.

At the appointment, explain your symptoms, how long they have been present and whether you have experienced previous ear problems. Mention any hearing aids, ear surgery, perforations, grommets or medicines that may be relevant. The practitioner can then decide whether microsuction is appropriate and explain what to expect.

When to seek medical advice promptly

Ear wax is common, but not every blocked or uncomfortable ear is caused by wax. Contact your GP or seek appropriate medical advice if you have sudden hearing loss, severe or worsening pain, pus or blood from the ear, fever, swelling around the ear, significant dizziness or facial weakness.

You should also seek assessment if hearing remains reduced after wax removal, if symptoms keep returning or if you are unsure whether wax is the cause. Children and people with complex ear conditions may require a different assessment or referral.

Book professional ear wax removal

If blocked ears are affecting your hearing or comfort, professional assessment can help you choose a safe and suitable option. Microsuction may be preferable to cotton buds because it allows wax to be removed under direct vision, rather than being pushed further into the ear.

To discuss your symptoms and arrange an appointment, book our ear wax removal service at Unicare Pharmacy.