Did you know earwax build up can cause significant hearing loss and should be addressed?

We at Egan’s Hearing, Munster’s leading ear care company are offering a free earwax check for both adults and children, no appointment necessary.

Earwax removal at Egan’s.

For over 50 years Egan’s has been at the forefront of hearing loss management in Munster. One of the most common reasons for hearing impairment that is seen at Egan’s hearing clinics is excessive earwax blockage. People suffer from hearing loss needlessly and in some cases suffer cognitive decline as a result.
Earwax removal is a simple, painless, cost-effective procedure to remedy this common complaint. Down through the generations, many of the frequently asked questions by customers are still very relevant today. With this article, our audiologists want to give you better insight into earwax removal and the long-term management of this common problem.

What is earwax and why is it important?

Earwax, also called cerumen, is made by the body to protect the ears. It starts as a mixture of fatty secretions from the sebaceous and sweat glands in the walls of the outer ear canal, this viscous coating prevents dust, dirt, and other debris from entering the ear and damaging the eardrum. Researchers are now using earwax to measure levels of the stress hormone cortisol over extended time periods in their studies in mental health management.

What are the symptoms of earwax build up and blockage?

• Feeling of fullness in the ear.
• Pain/soreness in the ear.
• Difficulty with hearing, which continues to worsen.
• Ringing or buzzing type sensation in the ear (tinnitus).
• Itchiness in the ear.
• Fluid discharge from the ear.
• Dizziness/vertigo
• Speaking loudly

What does the colour of earwax mean?

• Earwax colour is generally determined by the following factors.
• Children tend to have more viscous, light-coloured earwax.
• Healthy and normal earwax is light brown, orange, or yellow.
• Deep brown or black earwax is typically older, the colour comes from the dirt and bacteria that have been trapped over time.
• Dark brown earwax that is tinged with red may signal a bleeding injury to the ear canal or eardrum.
• White earwax could be an indicator of a lack of natural chemicals associated with body odour.

Why do I have so much earwax all of a sudden?

Usually, the body knows exactly how much ear wax to produce. Normally your ears will naturally expel excess earwax, dirt, and debris without any intervention. You could experience an overproduction of ear wax in one or both ears that in time could become troublesome. Some of the more common reasons are as follows.

• Stress.
• Excessive exercise can increase earwax production.
• Chronic ear infections.
• Abnormally-formed ear canals.
• Excess hair growth in their ear canals.
• Certain skin conditions.
• People with certain learning disabilities.

What is the most effective way to remove earwax?

Micro suction is a clean, safe, and more exact method of removing earwax as it doesn’t require the use of irrigation with water.

Micro suction earwax removal is performed using a microscope by our expert audiologists, a very thin steel fitting is fitted to the end of the suction tube which allows us to gently dislodge and suck out the ear wax from your canal. The procedure is a very comfortable process, and it is usually undertaken in a few minutes.

The cost of a Microsuction procedure at Egan’s Hearing is 50 euros for one ear or 80 euros for both ears.

How do I soften earwax?

Olive oil spray is a simple and effective method of softening or naturally removing the wax in the ear canal. It is recommended that you use this treatment for five days. If you are not getting any notable improvements from the olive oil treatment, you will need to see an audiologist for an earwax check which is a free service provided at Egan’s Hearing centre and is available to both adults and children. Should you require treatment to remove your ear wax blockage you will be offered a micro suction procedure appointment.

How can earwax blockage affect my hearing?

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves fail to reach the inner ear. The cause may be a result of an earwax build up around the ear canal which prevents soundwaves from reaching the middle ear. You may not have any notable symptoms with an earwax build-up as it happens over time, however highly impacted ear wax in the ear canal is extremely common. As we get older earwax tends to become harder and less viscous, which may reduce its natural ability to expel from the ear canal.

What will happen if I let my Hearing Loss go untreated?

Untreated hearing loss can lead to progressive cognitive decline over time. Studies have shown that memory loss and dementia are major risk factors associated with hearing loss. People with untreated hearing loss are more likely to develop anxiety and feelings of inadequacy, leading to avoidance of social interaction. There are strong links between the emotional effects of hearing loss and poor mental health. Because of the links between hearing loss and your brain’s health, it is important to have your hearing checked frequently.

If ear wax is not a contributing factor to your hearing loss, hearing aids may be a welcome and necessary option. Research has shown the benefits of hearing aids to have a dramatic effect on the overall quality of life in patients suffering from hearing loss.

Get started today by visiting Egan’s Hearing Centre at 5/6 Lavitt’s Quay, Cork. and receive your free earwax check, with no appointment necessary.