Audio Help Hearing Centers provides ear wax removal services in New York. Our clinics are conveniently located in Manhattan (Chelsea Village, Columbus Circle, and Park Avenue). We also have additional offices in Scarsdale, NY (Westchester County) and Stamford, CT.
Excess ear wax can cause physical discomfort and temporary hearing loss. We never recommend using cotton swabs or other objects for ear wax removal because sticking anything in your ear canal may compact existing ear wax or puncture your eardrum.
The expert audiologists at Audio Help Hearing Centers are trained to safely remove ear wax buildup so you can keep your ears and hearing aids clean.
Understanding Ear Wax
Ear wax, or cerumen, is a natural substance your body creates in the outer portion of your ear canal to protect it from debris and germs. You need ear wax to protect your ears, but excessive amounts can be problematic.
Here are some common problems caused by ear wax buildup:
- Conductive hearing loss: This kind of hearing loss happens when something stops sound waves from moving through the outer or middle part of your ear. Earwax or another blockage can cause this type of hearing loss, but it can usually be fixed by removing whatever is blocking the sound.
- Diplacusis: Also called double hearing, diplacusis can happen if you have too much ear wax. When wax builds up in your ear canal, it acts like a natural earplug. This makes it hard for the tiny hair cells in your inner ear to hear sounds the right way.
- Presbycusis: This kind of slow hearing loss happens as you get older. Your ears make more wax as you age, and it can be hard to clean it out by yourself. This extra ear wax might be making it harder for you to hear.
- Ear infections: Ear wax helps keep your ears safe from dirt and germs. But if you have too much ear wax, it can cause ear infections and make your ears hurt.
How Do You Know If You Have Ear Wax?
- Ear discomfort or mild pain
- Reduced hearing
- Tinnitus
- A feeling of fullness in your ears
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Coughing
How Do You Clean Your Ears?
Cleaning your ears is important for staying clean and healthy. However, it is very important to clean your ears safely. If you are not careful, you might hurt your ears or push the earwax deeper inside.
Here are some do’s and don’ts for cleaning your ears:
Do’s:
- Use a washcloth: Gently clean the outer part of your ears with a washcloth during your regular bath or shower. This helps remove excess wax and prevent a buildup.
- Ear drops: If you have a lot of earwax, you can make it softer by using ear drops you can buy at the store or by using olive oil. Make sure to read the instructions on the product. If you have any worries, ask an audiologist for help.
- Warm water rinse: After you put ear drops in your ears, you can rinse them out with warm water. Tilt your head to the side. You can use a bulb syringe or let the warm water from the shower flow into your ear and then let it drain out on its own.
- Seek professional help: If you have ear pain, trouble hearing, or a lot of earwax, talk to an audiologist. They can check your ears and help you feel better.
Don’ts:
- Avoid using cotton swabs: It’s not recommended to insert cotton swabs or any other objects into your ear canal. This can push wax deeper, cause injury, or even damage the delicate structures of the ear.
- Say no to ear candles: Ear candles, a popular but unsafe method, involve inserting a hollow cone-shaped candle into the ear and lighting the other end. This method is not proven to be effective and can lead to burns, ear canal obstruction, or other injuries.
- Limit ear wax removal tools: Devices like ear wax removal kits or ear picks can cause damage if not used properly. Using these tools without proper knowledge or care can lead to injury or impacted wax.
- Don’t use excessive force: If you notice ear wax near the ear opening, resist the urge to scrape or dig it out. This can push the wax deeper into the ear canal.
Remember, the ears are self-cleaning to some extent, and excessive cleaning can disrupt this natural process.
If you are unsure about how to clean your ears or are experiencing any issues, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care.
Audio Help Hearing Centers provides professional ear wax removal in NYC.
Safe At-Home Ear Wax Removal Techniques
For mild ear wax issues, dealing with it at home is possible. Below are some at-home ear wax removal techniques that you can consider:
- Over-the-Counter Ear Drops: Over-the-counter ear drops, such as those containing hydrogen peroxide, mineral oil, or glycerin, can help soften earwax, making it easier for the wax to naturally move out of the ear. If you continue to experience pain or discomfort, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
- Ear Irrigation with Warm Water: Flushing the ear with warm water can help remove softened earwax. You can use a bulb syringe or let warm water enter your ear while tilting your head to the side, allowing the water to drain naturally. Do not use cold or hot water, as it can cause dizziness and discomfort.
- Ear wax Removal Kits: Ear wax removal kits often include drops for softening wax and tools like bulbs or syringes for irrigation. Some kits may also come with ear picks or loops for manual removal.
If you have a history of ear problems, ear infections, or a perforated eardrum, it’s advisable to consult an audiologist before attempting any at-home earwax removal.
The goal of at-home ear wax removal is to assist the natural cleaning process rather than forcefully removing earwax. If you’re uncertain about the best approach for your situation, it’s always wise to consult with an audiologist for personalized advice.
How Does An Audiologist Clean Ears?
Audiologists treat most ear wax cases. You will receive comprehensive and comfortable ear wax removal at Audio Help Hearing Centers. We will ensure the impacted ear wax is removed safely to avoid injury and infection. We apply softening agents to loosen impacted ear wax and dislodge the blockage.
Physical removal may also be necessary depending on the size and severity of the obstruction. We will flush your ear with warm water and use a suctioning device to remove the ear wax gently. Our audiologists may prescribe antibiotics to treat an infection if any inflammation or pus is present.
In rare situations, you may receive a referral to an ENT specialist if your ear wax is severely compacted or too close to your eardrum.
Ear Wax Removal FAQs:
How do you know if you need ear irrigation?
If you experience symptoms such as hearing loss, ear fullness, or discomfort due to impacted earwax, you may need ear irrigation. Other signs include ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or dizziness. Over-the-counter ear drops can soften the wax, facilitating its removal through irrigation. If these symptoms persist, or if you’re uncertain, consult an audiologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate guidance.
How often should I get my ears professionally cleaned?
The frequency of professional ear cleaning depends on individual circumstances. For many people, the ears are self-cleaning, and routine cleaning may not be necessary. If you experience symptoms like excessive earwax buildup, hearing loss, or discomfort, consult an audiologist.
Audio Help Hearing Center audiologists in New York can assess your specific situation and recommend an appropriate cleaning schedule, which may range from as-needed to periodic cleanings. Please avoid attempting frequent self-cleaning to prevent potential damage to the delicate structures of the ear.
Why does ear wax vary in color and texture?
Ear wax (cerumen) can vary in color and texture due to factors like age, genetics, and environmental influences. Generally, ear wax can be yellow, brown, or orange. The color variation comes from the mix of dead skin cells, hair, and secretions from ceruminous glands. The texture may range from soft and moist to dry and flaky. Factors such as diet, stress, and hygiene practices can also contribute to the differences in ear wax characteristics among individuals.
Audio Help Hearing Centers: Professional Ear Wax Removal Services in NYC
Do you have any ear wax concerns? Get help from an audiologist in New York today!
Audio Help Hearing Centers has five convenient locations, so you’ll have no trouble finding an ear wax removal provider near you.
Audio Help Hearing has three New York City audiology clinics conveniently located in Manhattan (Chelsea Village, Columbus Circle, and Park Avenue) and additional offices in Scarsdale, NY (Westchester County) and Stamford, CT.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!