COMMON CONDITIONS
Exostoses
Exostoses, also known as surfer’s ear, are bony growths that develop in the ear canal. These are typically caused by repeated exposure to cold wind and water. These growths can narrow the ear canal and sometimes lead to water or wax buildup, discomfort, or increased risk of ear infections.
How we manage exostoses
While the bony growths cannot be removed without surgery, microsuction can help manage the wax and debris that often build up in the narrowed ear canal. Using very small, precise tools, we do our best to clear the canal as close to the eardrum as safely possible. In some cases, the narrowing is significant, and we may recommend a referral to an ENT specialist to discuss surgical options.
Ear Infections
Outer ear infections (Otitis externa) are commonly caused by bacteria or fungi.
Common signs include:
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Itching or irritation in the ear canal
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Redness or swelling of the outer ear canal
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Discharge or fluid from the ear
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A feeling of fullness or discomfort
Otitis externa is relatively common, particularly among people who swim or expose their ears to water regularly. Recurrent infections can increase the likelihood of future infections, making careful monitoring and management important.
How we manage ear infections
Microsuction can assist during an outer ear infection by gently clearing wax and debris from the often narrowed and inflamed canal, allowing prescribed drops to reach the affected area more effectively. Sometimes, this requires multiple appointments to completely clear the infection.
Note: Microsuction does not treat the infection itself; treatment with prescribed drops or medications is still required.
Ringing / Tinnitus
A build-up of earwax can sometimes cause or worsen tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or humming sounds in the ear). When wax blocks the ear canal, it can create pressure changes or reduce the way sound travels to the eardrum. This blockage can make you more aware of internal sounds, such as blood flow or nerve activity, which may be perceived as ringing or buzzing.
How we manage tinnitus / ringing
Microsuction doesn’t directly treat tinnitus itself, but it can help if the ringing or buzzing is caused or worsened by earwax build-up. Once the wax is removed and normal hearing is restored, tinnitus often improves or resolves. However, tinnitus can also have other causes unrelated to wax, so if it persists after cleaning, it’s best to follow up with your GP or an audiologist for further assessment.
Itchy Ears
Earwax keeps your ear canal healthy and moisturised, but changes in wax can cause itching. Dry, flaky wax often leads to a tickling or itchy sensation. This happens because the dry wax can irritate the delicate skin inside the ear canal.
How we manage itchy ears
Microsuction gently removes excess or dry, flaky earwax that can irritate the ear canal and cause itching. Clearing the wax relieves irritation and often reduces the tickling or itchy sensation. Using a lubricating drop, like olive oil, once a week can help keep the earwax soft and prevent ongoing dryness.
Blocked / Full Ears
Blocked or full ears are a common condition, often caused by a buildup of earwax or fluid in the ear canal. This can create a feeling of pressure, muffled hearing, or a “full” sensation. Many people experience it occasionally, and it can vary in intensity from mild to more pronounced.
How we manage blocked ears
We safely and gently remove the earwax or fluid causing blocked or full ears. Our microsuction method is precise and comfortable, clearing the ear canal without pushing wax deeper. This helps restore a clear feeling in the ear and improves hearing.
Ear Discomfort or Pressure
Ear discomfort or a feeling of pressure is often caused by a buildup of earwax, trapped water, or changes in air pressure. It can make the ear feel heavy, full, or slightly sore, and sometimes affects hearing.
How we manage ear discomfort or pressure
Microsuction gently clears any excess wax or debris that may be causing the pressure. This method helps relieve discomfort and restores a light, open feeling in the ear.
Hearing Aid Users
Hearing aids can sometimes lead to a buildup of earwax, as they prevent the ear’s natural cleaning process and can compact wax deeper into the canal. This may cause muffled sound, itching, or discomfort in the ears.
How we support hearing aid users
Microsuction safely removes excess wax without affecting the hearing aid or ear canal. Regular ear care helps maintain clear sound quality and ensures hearing aids stay comfortable and effective. Hearing aid users usually benefit from routine appointments to prevent symptoms recurring.
Eustachian tube dysfunction
Eustachian tube dysfunction occurs when the small tube connecting the middle ear to the back of the nose becomes blocked or doesn’t open properly. This can cause a feeling of fullness, popping, or pressure in the ears, and sometimes mild hearing changes.
How we manage eustachian tube dysfunction
While microsuction doesn’t treat the Eustachian tube directly, clearing excess wax or debris from the ear canal can help relieve pressure and improve comfort. It also ensures the ear is clear for accurate assessment and further management if needed.
