Our hearing aid audiologists have been fully trained to use the proven, tested water irrigation system of removing wax from ears.
How does irrigation work?
Using an electronic irrigation device, the hearing aid audiologist will direct a flow of water into your ear canal to clear the wax. The water will be around standard body temperature and minimum pressure is applied.
The audiologist may well use a video otoscope which is a tiny colour video camera. This will aid the audiologist to see what is happening in the ear canal and at the ear drum. The images will be transferred to a screen so that you can see exactly what is happening.
How long does it take?
The procedure is gentle and painless, although your ears may tickle a little as water trickles around them. It usually takes around 30 minutes for both ears, if no particular problems are encountered.
Does it hurt?
If you do feel any pain at any stage in the process, or if you feel dizzy or experience vertigo, tell the hearing aid audiologist immediately. There may be signs of an ear infection that needs further examination.
Is ear irrigation suitable for everybody?
There are some people for whom ear irrigation is not recommended, for instance:
- Had a middle-ear infection (otitis media) in the past two months
- Whether you have had any ear surgery in the last 18 months
- If you have grommets in your ears or any other foreign objects in your ears
- You have previously had problems with ear irrigation
- If you have a perforated eardrum, or previously in the last year
- Whether you are experiencing any form of discharge from your ears which may indicate a perforated eardrum
We would not recommend ear irrigation for young and/or temperamental children, or those who are not in a position to understand fully what is involved with the procedure.