FAQ's
I know that choosing a new physician can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. That’s why I want you to rest assured that you’ve chosen well. Below you’ll find answers to some of my clients’ frequently asked questions. I’ve been able to cover quite a few topics, but if there’s something I haven’t touched on, please don’t hesitate to ask.
WHAT IS EAR WAX AND WHY DOES IT CAUSE A PROBLEM?
Ear wax is a natural protection, lubrication and defence against foreign bodies & infection for the skin of the ear canal. It is normal to produce ear wax and this in itself is not a problem.
Difficulties can arise if the normal and natural migration of the wax out of the ear canal is impeded (for example by wearing a hearing aid) or slowed (as can happen as part of the ageing process). Sometimes wax can build up and form a plug spontaneously and for no particular reason. When these type of problems arise, discomfort and hearing loss can occur and the best way to ease this is for the wax to be professionally cleared.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF EAR WAX?
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Ringing and buzzing in the ears
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Dizziness
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Pain
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Occluding feeling
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Loss of hearing
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Infection/Earache
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Itchiness
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Hearing aid users - feedback/whistling
Some symptoms regarding ear wax include:
Microsuction FAQ's
WHY IS MICROSUCTION PREFERABLE TO HAVING YOUR EARS SYRINGED ?
Syringing is an option however there are risks associated with this. The eardrum can be damaged by irrigation with water and sometimes the ear wax is actually pushed further into the ear by an unsuccessful syringing. Microsuction is different because the ear canal remains visible to the professional whilst the process is taking place and there is no introduction of water into the ear. It is generally regarded by medical professionals as the preferred ear wax removal technique and is the treatment most likely to provide full and total clearance of problematic wax.
IS MICROSUCTION SAFE?
Yes. There is sometimes a bit of noise as the wax is suctioned away but the treatment is both safe and effective. Our Audiologists are highly skilled professionals with years of experience and relevant training.
Not normally. Whilst it can feel a little strange to have wax removed from the ear canal, the process is fast, effective and without pain in the overwhelming majority of cases. Some people with extremely sensitive ears can experience mild discomfort, however this is likely to be the case whichever clearance method they choose to undergo.
DOES MICROSUCTION HURT?
HOW IS MICROSUCTION PERFORMED?
The Ear wax is removed using a gentle suction device and a microscope to view the ear canal and drum accurately. It provides instant relief and, in most cases, restores full hearing immediately. Microsuction is proven to be the Gold Standard for the removal of Ear wax and is completely safe, accurate and effective unlike traditional methods such as syringing.
DO I NEED TO DO ANYTHING BEFORE I ATTEND MY APPOINTMENT?
Whilst not essential, it is helpful to use a few drops of olive oil or an alternative product to soften the wax prior to your treatment. There are some cases where this is not a good idea - for example if you have a history of perforated eardrum - however this can be discussed in more detail at the time of booking your appointment. A history of perforated eardrum does NOT prevent you from having wax removed by microsuction
​WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY?
A Fully Qualified Audiologist will do a medical questionnaire and examine your ear with an Otoscope. If impacted wax is present this will be safely removed from the ear. The procedure takes between 20 and 30 minutes depending on one or both ears being treated.​ Olive Oil to soften the wax is not necessary weeks before the appointment although using the day before can help with removal.
HOW OFTEN WILL I NEED MY EARS CLEARING?
This is varies for different people. Sometimes one clearance is enough for many years whereas for others treatment is required every few months. We can offer a free examination of your ears at any time and if clearance is required this can usually be done at the same appointment
WHICH AREAS ARE YOU CURRENTLY OPERATING IN?
We would like to help any patient that enquires. However, at this moment in time we are only operating in Yorkshire and parts of Lancashire. Please see below some of the areas we cover:​
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Leeds
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Bradford
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Wakefield
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Huddersfield
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Halifax
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Batley
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Dewsbury
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Barnsley
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Elland
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Greater Manchester
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Brighouse
WHAT IF THE TREATMENT IS NOT SUITABLE?
If ear wax removal is not suitable then a £25 consultation fee will apply
HOW SOON CAN I BE SEEN?
We offer same-day emergency appointments, subject to appointment availability.
DO YOU CHARGE A CALL-OUT FEE?
We do charge a small call-out fee depending on the distance needed to travel.