Not too long ago, if you experienced issues with earwax build-up or trouble hearing, your GP might have offered ear syringing to address the problem. Attempting to remove earwax at home is often discouraged because it can lead to complications like infections or damage to the ear canal.
These days, GP surgeries no longer provide ear syringing as a routine service. Let’s dive into the reasons behind this change and explore the options now available for earwax removal.
Why Does Earwax Build Up?
Before exploring treatment options, it’s important to understand earwax itself.
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance that protects your ear canal by trapping dirt, debris, and bacteria. For most people, earwax naturally works its way out of the ear over time. However, when this process doesn’t occur, wax can accumulate, causing symptoms such as:
Hearing loss
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Vertigo (dizziness)
Earache
A feeling of fullness in the ear
For minor issues, softening the wax with olive oil may help it fall out naturally. But if symptoms persist, professional intervention is often needed.
What Was Ear Syringing, and Why Is It No Longer Approved?
Ear syringing was once a widely used method for removing excess earwax. It involved using a syringe to inject a stream of water into the ear canal to flush out wax build-up. While this could offer relief from blocked ears, improve hearing, and alleviate symptoms like tinnitus or dizziness, it is no longer considered a safe or recommended procedure.
Under current NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines, ear syringing is not an approved method of earwax removal due to the risks involved. These risks include damage to the ear canal, eardrum perforation, and infections. Instead, modern, approved procedures include microsuction, ear irrigation, and manual removal (instrumentation).
Ear Syringing Vs Ear Irrigation: What is the Difference?
Ear syringing and ear irrigation are often confused, but they are actually quite distinct procedures:
Ear Syringing: This was the conventional method of injecting water with the help of a syringe in the ear. Since it was not possible to exactly adjust the water pressure, there was also a higher risk of ear damage or a feeling of discomfort.
Ear Irrigation: A more modern, safer method compared to syringing, irrigation uses special equipment which administers a controlled flow and pressure of water. By closely monitoring each step, we can process this in a controlled and more gentle manner, greatly reducing the risk of injury.
Though irrigation is considered to be a safer option, microsuction is the single most effective way to remove wax in a controlled and delicate manner. But the two procedures often complement each other. Irrigation aids in loosening and clearing softer wax, whereas microsuction is best for the safe removal of harder, deeper wax.
A complete medical history should always be obtained prior to earwax removal, to determine if there are contraindications (eg, perforated eardrum, recent ear infection, or other underlying conditions) that would prevent earwax removal. This makes certain the appropriate method is both safe and personalised for the individual.
Why Has Ear Syringing Been Stopped at GP Surgeries?
There are some very good reasons as to why ear syringing is no longer a routine service provided by GP surgeries:
Classification of Services: Ear syringing is not considered an essential service by the NHS. Its reclassification to a specialist service means it is only offered in some cases, such as via ENT or audiology services when earwax is causing major problems.
Safety Issues: Although ear syringing worked for many people, it came with risks like eardrum perforation or damage to the ear canal. NICE guidelines now recommend modern techniques such as microsuction and ear irrigation, which are safer and more precise.
Resource Constraints: In the context of growing demand on NHS resources, the focus has been on the prioritisation of core services.
How Does This Change Affect Things?
The suspension of earwax removal as a standard service has raised alarm, especially among older patients or those with less disposable income.
The result is that left untreated some patients may suffer from the consequences of hearing impairment which can also impact the quality of their lives. There is now increasing pressure for the NHS to provide this support to allow vulnerable people in the community to access the care that they need.
What Are the Alternatives Ear Syringing?
Fortunately, there are still effective and safe options available to deal with earwax build-up, all of which have NICE guidelines approval:
Microsuction: A method that allows to remove wax in a safe and precise way with a small specialist vacuum device. It’s especially good for tough or deep clogs.
Irrigation: A modern alternative to syringing, irrigation uses advanced equipment to regulate water pressure, ensuring a safer and more controlled way to flush out loosened wax.
Instrumentation: It is a manual technique that is performed with specialised tools to carefully eliminate wax. It’s well-suited for smaller clogs or circumstances in which other approaches may not be practical.
Ear Drops: Some over-the-counter preparations like olive oil or hydrogen peroxide-based drops can soften wax, making it easier to pull out or allowing it to fall out on its own over time.
The private clinic has become the one stop shop for earwax removal for many. Private treatment can be costlier than NHS services, but offers swift and professional attention. Prices for procedures vary by provider and location but are usually between £40 and £90.
If you're struggling with earwax build-up, you can consult a ear care specialist to find the right solution for your condition and obtain safe and effective treatment.
Why Choose Us for Earwax Removal?
At EARS Clinics, we specialise in professional earwax removal services tailored to the needs of each patient. Our specialist team uses accredited techniques and a combination of procedure types, these include Microsuction, Irrigation and Instrumentations. This ensures your treatment is safe, effective, and comfortable.
We’re proud to serve patients across Scotland & Glasgow, offering accessible, high-quality care for just £60, with a complimentary follow up appointment if we have been unsuccessful to complete the procedure, or if your clinician has any concerns and would like to see you again. Whether you’re dealing with persistent symptoms or simply want to maintain optimal ear health, we’re here to help and often have same day appointments available.
Take Control of Your Ear Health
If you’re struggling with earwax build-up or related symptoms, don’t wait for it to worsen. Contact us today to book an appointment or learn more about our services.
For further reading, check out our other articles on news, ear health and tips for maintaining clean and healthy ears.
Let’s help you say goodbye to earwax build-up and hello to better hearing!
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