How do I know if I need ear wax removal?
- Trang Doan
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
As an experienced audiologist in Bristol, I help hundreds of individuals each year in restoring clearer hearing, relieving the pressure caused by blocked ears, and easing the discomfort linked to ear wax build-up. I understand how frustrating and uncomfortable this issue can be. If you're unsure whether it's time to have your ears professionally cleaned, here are some clear signs to look out for and helpful advice to guide you.
Excess ear wax can cause a surprising range of symptoms. You might experience:
Muffled hearing or reduced hearing – You might struggle to catch parts of conversations or miss out on the subtle sounds in your environment. This can be both isolating and frustrating, and lead to misunderstandings or even a sense of disconnection from the people around you, especially in social situations.
Ear fullness or pressure – The feeling of a blocked ear can be deeply
uncomfortable, sometimes creating a sense of being cut off from the world. It can
make everyday activities, like talking on the phone, listening to music, or engaging in
group conversations, less enjoyable and potentially isolating.
Earache or discomfort – Persistent pain or a dull ache in the ear canal can be
distracting and concerning, often making it hard to focus or relax. This can impact
your daily life, from work to social interactions.
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) – That constant, high-pitched ringing, buzzing, or
hissing can feel like it’s drowning out the quieter, more pleasant sounds in your life,
leading to increased stress or anxiety over time.
Dizziness or imbalance – In more severe cases, wax build-up can affect your
balance, potentially causing vertigo-like symptoms that make you feel unsteady or
disoriented, impacting your confidence in everyday activities.
No GP referral is needed for ear wax removal treatment.
You don’t need a GP referral for ear wax removal. It’s a self-referral service, meaning you
can book directly online through our convenient booking page. This makes it easier and
faster to get the care you need without unnecessary delays.
Preparing for your ear wax removal appointment
If you suspect you have excess ear wax, you can visit your local pharmacist, practice nurse, or audiologist in Bristol for a quick assessment. They will use an otoscope to examine your ears and confirm if wax is the issue. If you prefer a professional consultation, we charge a £20 consultation fee if you are unsure whether there is wax present.
Typically, we advise using ear drops 3-4 days before your appointment to soften the
wax, making removal more comfortable and effective. While there are several types of drops available, we particularly recommend using olive oil drops, as they are gentle and effective at softening wax. Our top pick is Earol – a well-regarded brand known for its convenient spray application and natural, soothing formula.
Depending on the type of drops you choose, like Sodium Bicarbonate or Hydrogen
Peroxide, you might experience a few unusual but harmless sensations, such as:
A tickly, cool feeling as the drops enter the ear canal.
Quiet popping or fizzing sounds as the solution reacts with the wax.
An increased sense of fullness as the wax expands in response to the drops.
If you experience pain, or if you feel the need to have the wax cleared out sooner, you can always book an appointment sooner, as we often have same day ear wax removal appointments available for emergencies.
Ear wax is a natural and essential part of your ear’s defense system, but when it becomes too much, professional removal can bring immediate relief. If you’re unsure whether you need ear wax removal, or just want peace of mind, don’t hesitate to reach out for a professional assessment.
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