Ear irrigation, or ear syringing, is a safe and effective method for removing built-up ear wax. Over time, excess wax can accumulate in the ear canal, causing hearing issues, pain, ringing, or discomfort. During irrigation, a specialised electronic device gently directs a warm stream of water into the affected ear canal. The water flushes the wax out of the ear, clearing the blockage without risking further impact.
South East Hearing Care Centres offers professional ear irrigation services in Sussex, performed by our experienced audiologists. If you need to have your ears assessed or have wax removed, book an appointment at your nearest location.
Signs you have ear wax buildup
Ear wax buildup happens gradually over time, and if the wax is not removed through natural processes, like chewing and jaw motion, it can build up and harden, blocking the ear canal. Symptoms of excess earwax include:
- Decreased hearing/muffled sounds
- Earache/ear pain
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Dizziness
- A feeling of fullness/plugged sensation in the ear
- Itching in the ear canal.
When wax builds up excessively, seeing an audiologist for professional ear irrigation can safely remove the blockage and relieve symptoms.
Our irrigation earwax removal services
Fully qualified audiologists perform our professional ear irrigation services. We begin by carefully examining the ear canal and eardrum before performing irrigation to remove the blockage.
With over 25 years of experience in audiology, we are true experts in ear wax removal. We use the latest technology, microscopes, and otoscopes to properly diagnose and treat wax buildup without damaging your hearing. As independent clinics in Chichester, Horsham, and Seaford, we offer personalised attention in a friendly environment.
The benefits of irrigation or ear syringing to remove excess ear wax
- Safe and effective wax removal without irritating the ear canal
- Improves hearing by clearing wax blockages
- Relieves discomfort like earache, pressure, ringing, and itching
- Prevents further issues like ear infections, tinnitus, and hearing loss
- Allows complete examination of the ear canal and eardrum
- Quick procedure, usually taking only 10-15 minutes per ear
- Cost-effective option compared to more invasive methods.
Book an irrigation ear wax removal appointment
Don’t let excessive ear wax buildup continue to impact your hearing and cause discomfort. Book an ear irrigation appointment with our experts at South East Hearing Care Centres today. Our skilled audiologists provide safe, professional ear-syringing services using advanced methods and equipment. Call your nearest South East Hearing Care Centre or book an appointment online.
Ear irrigation FAQs
How does ear irrigation work?
Using an electronic irrigation device, the audiologist directs a flow of water into your ear canal to clear the wax. The water is around standard body temperature, with minimum pressure applied.
The audiologist may use a video otoscope or a tiny video camera. This will aid the audiologist in seeing what is happening in the ear canal and eardrum. The images will be transferred to a screen so that you can see exactly what is happening.
How long does ear irrigation take?
Ear irrigation, or ear syringing, is gentle and painless. However, 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 ear syringing hurt?
If you 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 had one in the last year
- If you are experiencing any form of discharge from your ears, indicating a perforated eardrum.
Do you offer ear wax removal for children?
Our clinics do not remove ear wax for those under 16. Please note that our Seaford clinic does not remove ear wax for anyone under 18.