Stockport Ear Wax Removal

  • AJC Hearing
  • 1 Garnett Street
  • Stockport
  • Cheshire
  • SK1 3AR
(By appointment only)

One ear

£ 40*

  • Microsuction earwax removal
  • Non-invasive
  • Safe & pain free
  • Suitable for most people including hearing aid users and perforated ear drums
  • £25 home visit call out charge in Stockport area

Both ears

£ 55*

  • Microsuction earwax removal
  • Non-invasive
  • Safe & pain free
  • Suitable for most people including hearing aid users and perforated ear drums
  • £25 home visit call out charge in Stockport area

Home visit service available - a non-refundable deposit may be required.
We cover all SK postcodes as well as Greater Manchester.

Reviews

Stephen Hall
3 months ago

Fantastic service!
Purchased hearing aids from the wide range of options Andrew provided… great follow up and aftercare service.

Terry Lomax
4 months ago

I recently accidentally broke one of my hearing aids and Andrew facilitated a complete repair by Oticon. He recalibrated my hearing aids and fitted better domes which has greatly improved my hearing and comfort. He explained things well and listened to my hearing needs. Highly recommended, thank you.

Wan
4 months ago

I visited Andy for ear wax removal. He was friendly, efficient and professional. Would recommend.

Steve Kent
4 months ago

I booked an appointment with Andrew at AJC Hearing for ear wax removal for both of my ears. He did a great job, I can hear clearly again. Andrew was friendly and professional, I would be happy to use his services again. Highly recommended.

Ear Wax Removal Stockport

Earwax removal

Earwax plays a vital role in keeping your ears healthy by acting as a natural barrier against dust, debris, and micro-organisms that could damage the ear canal. However, excessive earwax build-up, a condition known as impaction, can lead to several health and comfort issues if not addressed. Symptoms of impacted earwax include earaches, a feeling of fullness in the ear, diminished hearing, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and even dizziness. Ignoring these signs could exacerbate the problem, as often the longer the wax resides, the harder it becomes and ultimately, the more difficult it will be to remove.

Regular earwax removal, when done properly, is essential to prevent such complications and maintain optimal ear health. Many people attempt to clean their ears using cotton swabs or other tools that can push the wax further into the ear canal, worsening the blockage. To ensure safe and effective removal, it is highly recommended to consult healthcare professionals who can use specialised equipment or methods.

Removing excessive wax can improve hearing, alleviate discomfort, and reduce the risk of infections, making it an important part of personal hygiene and care. Remember, your ears are sensitive organs that require careful attention, and staying proactive about ear health can make a noticeable difference in your overall well-being.

Stockport microsuction

Microsuction

Microsuction is a professional ear wax removal technique performed by trained clinicians. It involves using a gentle suction device to carefully extract wax directly from the ear canal. This is done with the aid of a specialised microscope or a small magnification tool, allowing the clinician to see the ear canal clearly while removing the wax with precision.

Microsuction offers several advantages compared to traditional methods like ear syringing or over-the-counter remedies:

  • Safe and gentle:

    The procedure allows clinicians to target wax build-up precisely, reducing the risk of damaging sensitive areas.

  • No water usage:

    Unlike ear syringing, which involves flushing the ear with water, microsuction is a dry method. This is ideal for people who may have perforated eardrums or are prone to ear infections.

  • Quick and effective:

    Most microsuction procedures are completed within 20 minutes, offering instant relief from discomfort.

  • Suitable for everyone:

    Microsuction is generally safe for adults, children, and even those with certain ear conditions, such as narrow ear canals.

Stockport ear syringing

Ear syringing

What is ear syringing?

Ear syringing involves flushing the ear canal with lukewarm water to dislodge and remove impacted ear wax. This procedure is commonly carried out by healthcare professionals, though modern at-home kits are also available. The process uses a gentle stream of water to safely break apart wax build-up without damaging the delicate ear canal or eardrum.

Is ear syringing safe?

When performed by a qualified professional or correctly at home with approved devices, ear syringing is generally safe. However, it’s not suitable for everyone. If you have a perforated eardrum, an active ear infection, or a history of ear surgery, ear syringing might not be recommended. Always consult your GP or audiologist before attempting any ear wax removal procedure.

Why use syringing instead of micro-suction?

Syringing is often preferred for removing earwax due to its simpler, less invasive nature. It uses a gentle stream of water to flush out wax, making it a cost-effective and widely accessible option. Unlike micro-suction, syringing doesn’t require specialist equipment, and some people may find the process more comfortable as it avoids the direct use of suction in the ear canal.
Generally syringing is preferred if wax is situated deep in the canal or if the over use of oil drops has rendered the wax extremely soft.

Preparing for syringing

Using ear drops for a few days prior to syringing can help soften the wax, making it easier to remove. Your healthcare provider may recommend specific solutions to use before the procedure.

Common questions

Ear wax, medically referred to as cerumen, plays a vital role in maintaining ear health. It prevents dust, bacteria, and other particles from entering the ear canal, while also providing essential lubrication. However, a build-up of ear wax can lead to uncomfortable and problematic symptoms if not managed properly. Common issues include:

Hearing Loss

An excess of ear wax can block the ear canal, leading to temporary hearing loss. This is particularly common in cases where the wax becomes compacted due to improper cleaning with cotton swabs or other objects. The blockage prevents sound waves from passing through to the eardrum effectively, causing muffled hearing.

Ear discomfort and pain

A build-up of ear wax may exert pressure on the sensitive walls of the ear canal, leading to pain or discomfort. This is often accompanied by a sensation of fullness in the ear, which can be distracting and disruptive.

Tinnitus

Excess ear wax can cause or worsen tinnitus, which is characterised by a constant ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in the ears. The blockage created by the wax disrupts the way the ear processes sound, exacerbating tinnitus symptoms.

Vertigo or balance issues

Although the cochlea is the most significant part of the ear for maintaining balance, those with significant wax build-up (particularly when one sided) often experience effects of unsteadiness on their feet or even vertigo.  This can make even the most basic activities such as walking or even standing up challenging.

Ear infection

If ear wax traps moisture or debris within the ear canal, it creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth. This can lead to ear infections, causing redness, swelling, pain, and in severe cases, discharge from the ear.

While ear wax build-up is common, it’s important not to attempt to remove it with cotton buds or other tools that may push the wax further into the ear. Over-the-counter ear drops can help soften the wax, but persistent symptoms should prompt a visit to a healthcare professional. Safely removing stubborn wax can alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.

Taking care of your ear health is essential, and addressing ear wax build-up promptly can save you from unnecessary trouble.

Yes, the colour and texture of earwax can vary significantly from person to person and even within the same individual at different times.

Light Yellow to Black

These differences are usually normal. For example, earwax can range from light yellow if soft, to dark brown and even black, if it has been there a long time.  Generally the darker the wax, the harder it is.

Age, Diet, Environment and Genetics

Factors such as age, diet, environment, and genetics can all influence earwax characteristics. For instance, children typically have softer, lighter earwax, while adults may have darker and harder wax.

Strong Odour

Changes in earwax are generally not a cause for concern, however, if you notice sudden or unusual changes, such as earwax with blood, a strong odour, or excessive discharge, it may indicate an underlying issue, and you should seek professional advice.

Ear wax, known medically as cerumen, plays a critical role in maintaining ear health. Its purpose is to protect your ears by trapping dust, debris, and bacteria. However, excessive ear wax build-up can cause discomfort, hearing issues, and even infections. Fortunately, preventing this build-up is manageable with a few simple practices.

Avoid cotton buds

It may sound counterintuitive, but using cotton buds to clean your ears can do more harm than good. Instead of removing wax, they often push it further into the ear canal, leading to impaction. Resist the urge to insert anything into your ears.

Cleansing the outer ear

The outer ear can be cleaned gently with a damp cloth. This ensures that any visible wax buildup is removed without causing any damage to the ear canal.

Use ear drops

Over-the-counter ear drops can soften and loosen ear wax, helping it move out of the ear naturally.

Regular check-ups

If you're prone to ear wax build-up, consider regular visits to a professional audiologist for safe and effective ear cleaning. Avoid at-home remedies like ear candles as they can be harmful and ineffective.

Proper care and attention go a long way in keeping your ears healthy and wax-free. If you experience symptoms like pain or hearing loss, it’s always best to consult a healthcare provider.

Yes, regular use of in ear headphones can increase the likelihood of earwax build-up.

Traps Earwax in your Ear Canal

When you use in ear headphones, they can act as a barrier that traps earwax in your ear canal, preventing it from being naturally expelled.

Cleaning your Earphones

Additionally, they can push earwax deeper into the canal, leading to potential impaction over time. For those who frequently use such devices, it's important to take precautions by cleaning your earphones regularly and taking breaks to allow your ears to breathe.

Discomfort and Muffled Hearing

If you notice discomfort, muffled hearing, or other symptoms of build-up, consider using preventive eardrops or consult a local audiologist if symptoms persist.

If your ears are feeling blocked and your hearing has deteriorated, one of the most likely reasons is due to wax.

Qualified Audiologist

Seeking prompt advice from a qualified audiologist ensures that potential problems are addressed early, reducing the risk of further complications and ensuring the best possible outcome for your ear health.

There are several professional methods for earwax removal, each tailored to suit individual needs and the severity of the blockage.

Microsuction

One common method is microsuction, where a small device is used to gently suction out the earwax under the guidance of a microscope. This is often considered one of the safest and most precise techniques.

Ear Irrigation

For cases where the wax is very soft or very deep, ear irrigation may be employed. This involves flushing the ear canal with a controlled stream of warm water to dislodge and remove the build-up. It is important to note that professional assistance should always be sought for safe and effective earwax removal, especially for those with pre-existing ear conditions or a history of ear infections.

Manual Removal

Another method is manual removal, performed by a trained specialist using sterile tools like a curette or forceps to carefully extract the wax.

 

There are many misconceptions about earwax.

Earwax is dirty or unhygienic

One common misconception about earwax is that it is dirty or unhygienic.

However, earwax plays an essential role in protecting the ear canal by trapping dust, debris, and microorganisms, preventing them from reaching the eardrum.

Use of Cotton Buds

Another myth is that earwax should be removed regularly using cotton buds. On the contrary, using cotton buds can push earwax further into the ear canal, potentially causing blockages or damage.

Many people also believe that too much earwax indicates poor hygiene, but an individual's earwax production varies and is often influenced by genetics.

All Earwax Needs to be Removed

Most earwax works its way out naturally.

Understanding these misconceptions can encourage healthier ear care practices.

If you're dealing with ear wax build-up, here are some safe techniques for tackling it at home and with the help of a professional.

Over-the-Counter Drops

Ear wax softening drops, available at most pharmacies, can break down hardened wax. Made from oils, hydrogen peroxide, or saline, these drops should be used as directed for a few days. Once softened, the wax may naturally come out on its own.

Olive or Almond Oil

A few drops of warm olive or almond oil in the ear can help soften stubborn wax. Lie on your side, apply the oil with a dropper, and stay in position for 5-10 minutes before allowing gravity to help the wax move out.

Avoid Cotton Buds

Avoid using cotton buds (Q-tips) or other objects to dig out ear wax, as they tend to push the wax further in and could injure the ear canal.

If home remedies prove ineffective, or you experience pain, dizziness, or persistent hearing changes, consult a healthcare professional. A doctor may use micro-suction or specialised irrigation equipment to safely remove the wax.

Locations Covered

  • Ashton Under Lyne

  • Audenshaw

  • Bramhall

  • Bredbury

  • Chapel en le Frith

  • Cheadle

  • Cheadle Hulme

  • Chorlton

  • Davenporrt

  • Denton

  • Didsbury

  • Disley

  • Edgeley

  • Fallowfield

  • Gatley

  • Gorton

  • Hazel Grove

  • Heaton Chapel

  • Heaton Mersey

  • Heaton Moor

  • Heaviley

  • High Lane

  • Hyde

  • Levenshulme

  • Longsight

  • Marple

  • Marple Bridge

  • New Mills

  • Poynton

  • Offerton

  • Reddish

  • Romiley

  • Stockport

  • Whaley Bridge

  • Woodford

  • Woodley

  • Withington