A blocked ear often starts as a minor annoyance but can quickly become frustrating. Muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), or even mild dizziness can all be signs that earwax has built up and is preventing the ear from functioning normally.
The good news is that earwax blockage is usually straightforward to manage by following the right steps.
At Blackberry Hearing at Ballyduff Pharmacy, we provide professional earwax removal using microsuction, helping patients across Kerry restore their hearing safely and comfortably. If you've already tried ear drops without success, we're here to help.
Why Do Ears Become Blocked with Wax?
Earwax (cerumen) is a natural substance that protects the ear canal by trapping dust, dirt and bacteria. In most people, wax gradually works its way out of the ear without any intervention.
However, wax can build up if you:
- Naturally produce more earwax
- Have narrow or curved ear canals
- Regularly wear hearing aids
- Frequently use earphones or earplugs
- Attempt to clean inside the ear with cotton buds
According to NHS guidance, earwax blockage affects around 1 in 10 children and 1 in 20 adults at any one time, making it one of the most common ear conditions seen in primary care.
Step 1: Start with Ear Drops
For uncomplicated earwax build-up, softening drops should always be the first step. Available over the counter, they can soften wax sufficiently for it to move out naturally.
Recommended options include:
- Olive oil drops or spray – gentle and suitable for most people
- Urea & Hydrogen Peroxide ear drops
- Sodium bicarbonate drops – can help soften harder or drier wax
For best results:
- Apply drops 2–3 times daily
- Continue for 5–7 days
- Lie on your side for several minutes after application
- Follow the instructions supplied with the product
Do not use ear drops if you have:
- A perforated eardrum
- Ear discharge
- Significant ear pain
- Recent ear surgery (unless advised by your clinician)
For many people, drops alone are enough to resolve the blockage.
Step 2: Seek Professional Advice
If your symptoms haven't improved after using drops for around a week, it's time to have your ears assessed.
Avoid trying to remove wax yourself using:
- Cotton buds
- Ear candles
- Hair grips or other objects
- Home irrigation kits (unless specifically advised)
These methods can push wax deeper into the ear canal or cause injury. At Blackberry Hearing at Ballyduff Pharmacy, we examine the ear canal before recommending the most appropriate treatment.
Step 3: Microsuction Earwax Removal
Microsuction is widely regarded as one of the safest and most effective methods of professional earwax removal. Using gentle, low-pressure suction under direct visual guidance, the clinician can see the ear canal throughout the procedure — allowing wax to be removed accurately without flushing the ear with water.
| Method | How it works | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Ear drops | Soften wax so it can clear naturally | Mild to moderate wax build-up |
| Microsuction | Gentle suction under direct visual guidance | Most patients, including many hearing aid users |
| Manual removal | Fine instruments carefully remove wax | Hard or dry wax unsuitable for suction alone |
| Ear irrigation | Warm water flushes softened wax from the canal | Selected patients with no history of perforation or ear surgery |
Step 4: Prevent Future Wax Build-up
Once your ears have been cleared, a few simple habits can help reduce future problems:
- Use olive oil drops once or twice a week if you're prone to wax build-up
- Avoid cotton buds or inserting anything into the ear canal
- Clean only the outside of the ear with a damp cloth
- Have regular ear checks if you wear hearing aids
- Book routine earwax removal every 6–12 months if wax repeatedly causes symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I use ear drops before booking an appointment?
Use ear drops consistently for 5–7 days. If your hearing hasn't improved or your symptoms are getting worse, arrange an assessment with a clinician.
Is microsuction safe?
Yes. When carried out by a trained clinician, microsuction is considered a safe and effective method of earwax removal. Because the ear canal is viewed throughout the procedure, treatment is precise and controlled.
Should I use cotton buds?
No. Cotton buds frequently push wax further into the ear canal and may damage the delicate skin or eardrum. Clean only the outer ear.
How often should I have earwax professionally removed?
Most people only require treatment when symptoms develop. If you're prone to recurring wax build-up — particularly if you wear hearing aids — your clinician may recommend routine appointments every 6–12 months.
Does microsuction hurt?
Most patients find microsuction comfortable. You may hear a gentle suction sound during the procedure, but it is not typically painful. If at any point you feel discomfort, let your clinician know and they will adjust accordingly.
How long does the appointment take?
A microsuction appointment at Blackberry Hearing at Ballyduff Pharmacy usually takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on the degree of wax build-up and whether one or both ears need attention.
Do I need to use ear drops before my appointment?
It's generally recommended to use softening drops for 3–5 days before your appointment, as this can make removal easier and more comfortable. However, it isn't always essential — your clinician will assess this at the time.
Can microsuction be used if I wear hearing aids?
Yes. Hearing aid users are among those most likely to experience wax build-up, as the device can prevent wax from clearing naturally. Microsuction is generally well-suited to hearing aid users.
Will my hearing improve immediately after treatment?
Most patients notice an immediate improvement in their hearing following microsuction. Relief is typically felt straight away.
What's the difference between microsuction and ear irrigation?
Ear irrigation uses warm water to flush softened wax from the ear canal, while microsuction uses gentle suction under direct visual guidance without any water. Microsuction is suitable for a broader range of patients, including those with a history of ear surgery or perforated eardrums (once healed).
Is the service available to children?
If you're unsure whether microsuction is appropriate for a child, contact us at Blackberry Hearing at Ballyduff Pharmacy and we'll advise based on the child's age and symptoms.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book your microsuction appointment directly through Ballyduff Pharmacy. Get in touch and we'll get you sorted as quickly as possible.
Book Your Earwax Removal Appointment in Kerry
A blocked ear doesn't have to become a long-term problem. Start with ear drops, but if they don't resolve the blockage, professional assessment and microsuction can often provide quick relief.
At Blackberry Hearing at Ballyduff Pharmacy, we provide safe, professional earwax removal for patients across Kerry, with most people experiencing immediate improvement in their hearing following treatment.
Book your microsuction appointment today by phoning us on 066 7131111