Earwax and Ear Irrigation
Earwax is normal and helps to protect the ear canal. In most people it naturally works its way out of the ear without needing treatment.
Sometimes earwax can build up and cause symptoms such as:
- reduced hearing
- earache or a feeling that the ear is blocked
- ringing or buzzing in the ear (tinnitus)
- dizziness or vertigo
Treating earwax at home
If you think your symptoms are caused by earwax, the first step is usually to soften the wax.
The NHS recommends:
- Lie on your side with the affected ear facing upwards.
- Put 2–3 drops of olive oil or almond oil into the ear. Do not use almond oil if you have an almond allergy.
- Remain lying on your side for 5–10 minutes.
- Repeat 3–4 times a day for 3–5 days.
Over the following couple of weeks, the softened wax may naturally work its way out of the ear.
You can also speak to a pharmacist, who can advise you about treatments available for earwax.
Do not use ear drops if you have a perforated eardrum unless a healthcare professional has advised you that it is safe to do so.
Do not put cotton buds, fingers or other objects into the ear canal. These can push the wax further into the ear and may damage the ear canal or eardrum.
Ear irrigation
We do not provide ear irrigation at Nethergreen Surgery.
If your symptoms have not improved despite appropriately using ear drops, please contact the surgery. Where clinically appropriate, we can arrange an appointment for ear irrigation at a local hub practice.
Before an ear irrigation appointment, you will normally need to use ear drops to soften the wax. Please follow any instructions you are given when your appointment is arranged.
Ear irrigation is not suitable for everyone. Your medical and ear history will be considered before the procedure is carried out.
When to contact us
Please contact the surgery if:
- your symptoms have not improved after using ear drops
- your ear is significantly blocked and you are struggling to hear
- you have significant ear pain
- you have discharge or bleeding from the ear
- you are unsure whether your symptoms are caused by earwax
Sudden hearing loss should not be assumed to be caused by earwax.
For further information, please see the NHS guidance on earwax build-up.