Ear Care Clinic

Wax is produced by the ears as a way to protect them by keeping them clean and free of germs. It usually passes out of the ears naturally, but sometimes too much can build up and block the ear canal. The most common causes of excess ear wax are attempts at home removal, frequent use of earphones and advanced age.

If your ears become blocked by wax, it can affect your hearing and be uncomfortable. If this is the case, then the safest and most effective option is microsuction clearance. This is a quick and painless procedure where a small device is used to vacuum the wax from your ear. To minimise any risks, this is done while looking down a microscope.

Our Nurses have undergone specialist training in the microsuction procedure and are also trained to recognise infections and conditions that affect the ear. Ear cleansing with microsuction will be offered as a first-line treatment but other methods may be deemed more suitable, or a combination of methods may be used.

In preparation for the procedure, we ask that olive oil is applied to the ears for 2 days. This should ideally be done the day before the procedure and then on the day of the procedure. Olive oil is safe and easy to use; and helps to soften the wax, making it easier to remove. However, using too much oil can make the procedure long and uncomfortable. When booking you will be given the correct advice to follow. ‘Earol’ is the recommended product as it comes in a handy spray bottle and delivers a measured dose of oil into the ear. This can be bought from the pharmacy for a few pounds.

Additionally, the Ear Care clinic now boasts a brand new digital otoscope. An otoscope is a hand-held tool used by the doctor or nurse to look inside the ear. The digital otoscope can capture images and video of the ear. This is a really helpful tool if referral to another practitioner is required or even just for good record keeping. These images will also be helpful for the training of new team members in the future. Please ask the nurse at you appointment if you would like to take advantage of this extra service.

Audiograms, to screen hearing, are now also available in the clinic.

This is a really good tool for diagnosing hearing problems and other conditions. They can be requested by your GP for diagnostic purposes, or you are able to self-refer if you would like your hearing tested by the Ear Care Nurses.

It is possible to self-refer to this service - you do not need to see your GP first. We also welcome non-registered patients and visitors to use our service.