Earwax – we all have it, but many of us don’t think much about it. It’s easy to forget that earwax serves an important purpose, such as protecting our ears from dirt, dust, and bacteria. But did you know that earwax can also signal when something’s not quite right? The truth is, many people don’t realise they need earwax removal until symptoms start to pop up. If you’ve been noticing some unusual ear sensations, your ears might be trying to tell you something important. Let’s go through the surprising signs that you might need earwax removal, what to watch out for, and when to seek professional help.
A Feeling of Fullness or Congestion in the Ear
If you’ve ever experienced a feeling of fullness or a blocked ear, you might be tempted to think it’s just a temporary issue, like congestion from a cold. However, this sensation can also be a sign of excess earwax. When earwax builds up, it can create a feeling that something is stuck in your ear, even if it’s not. This fullness can be quite uncomfortable and might even make you feel a little off balance.
If you notice this sensation lingering or worsening, it might be time to get your ears checked. Professionals can help clear the blockage and restore normal sensation when they remove your earwax.
Reduced Hearing or Muffled Sound
One of the most common signs of earwax buildup is reduced hearing. When earwax accumulates in the ear canal, it can block sound waves from reaching your eardrum properly, causing sounds to become muffled or distant. You might feel like you’re missing out on conversations or having trouble hearing the TV at a normal volume.
If your hearing seems off, it’s worth getting your ears professionally cleaned. The change could be more dramatic than you realise – once the wax is cleared, you may be surprised at how much better your hearing is!
Earache or Discomfort
Another sign that you may need earwax removal is an earache or general discomfort in the ear. This isn’t always a sign of an infection, as many people assume – sometimes it’s simply the result of earwax pressing against the eardrum or ear canal. It can cause pain, tenderness, and even a feeling of pressure inside your ear.
If you’re experiencing ear pain that doesn’t seem to go away, consider visiting a healthcare professional to rule out other conditions and get your earwax checked. Proper removal can help ease the discomfort and restore normal function.
Itching or Irritation in the Ear Canal
Itchy ears are one of the most common complaints when earwax is building up. Wax can irritate the sensitive skin inside your ear canal, leading to persistent itching. While it might feel tempting to use cotton buds or other DIY methods to solve the problem, these can often push the wax further in and cause more issues.
If your ears are itchy or irritated, it could be a sign that you need professional earwax removal. An expert can safely clear the buildup without causing further harm.
Should You Be Scared About Professional Earwax Removal?
The thought of someone removing earwax can be scary. This is particularly true when it’s combined with the word ‘microsuction’. You can expect the worst, and this includes being painful.
However, you should be pleased to know that this treatment is classed as painless when it’s carried out by a professional. This is why you’re encouraged to book an appointment if you’re having problems. Let’s take a closer look at why you shouldn’t be scared of professional earwax removal.
Safer Than At-Home Treatments
First of all, know that professional earwax removal is safer than products you can buy and use yourself. You know that an expert with experience will be treating you, which should fill you with more confidence. You don’t know exactly what a home treatment will do and whether it could cause problems. So, the best option is microsuction, which is going to be pain-free and carried out by a professional.
Minimal Mess
Something that can make earwax removal scary is when you see a lot coming out of your ear. This can happen with water irrigation techniques, and it can make the experience unpleasant. However, the good thing about microsuction is that there’s minimal mess. This makes it a quick and easy treatment that won’t scare you with what it removes. Thus, when you have a good experience the first time, you’re going to be more willing to go back in the future.
Conclusion
Your ears are constantly working hard to protect and maintain your hearing, so when something feels off, it’s important to listen. If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned – like a feeling of fullness, reduced hearing, or earache – earwax buildup could be to blame. It’s always a good idea to have your ears checked if you notice persistent symptoms.