At Fraser Valley Beltone, your ear and your hearing health are our number one priority. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your ear or have noticed that sounds are muffled, it may be that you are experiencing a buildup of wax in your ear canal. To address this common concern, we are now pleased to offer Ear Wax Removal appointments in our Abbotsford office. Your Ear Wax Removal appointment will be with a Registered Nurse who holds certification in Cerumen Management.
What is Ear Wax?
Earwax, also known by the medical term cerumen, is a waxy substance secreted in the ear canal of humans and other mammals. Earwax can be many colors, including brown, orange, red, yellowish and gray. The colour and consistency of earwax are often determined genetically, but can also be affected by environmental or lifestyle factors such as dust in the atmosphere or prolonged use of earplugs or earphones. Typically, the darker the colour and drier the consistency, the older the earwax is. Although it can be a nuisance, earwax serves the important purpose of protecting the skin of the human ear canal, assisting in cleaning and lubrication and providing protection against foreign objects, bacteria, fungi, particulate matter and water.
When is it too much?
While the presence of earwax is completely normal, built-up or compacted cerumen can cause a blockage in the ear canal. This excess cerumen can press against the eardrum or block the outside ear canal, potentially causing hearing loss. Other symptoms that may accompany difficulty or muffled hearing may include:
- Earache
- Sensation of fullness in the ear canal
- Tinnitus, or ringing in the ear
- Conductive hearing loss
The buildup of earwax is extremely common, especially in older adults.
What can I do about it?
The ear is self-cleaning and over time, cerumen is naturally pushed toward the opening of the ear canal. While having earwax is normal and healthy, if you are experiencing discomfort or suspect a buildup may be affecting your hearing, you are advised to seek help from a healthcare professional. Your doctor, nurse or hearing specialist will use an otoscope to look at the entirety of your ear canal to determine if there is excess or impacted cerumen and discuss the best method to remedy it. The use of Q-tips or home remedies is not advised, although your healthcare provider may recommend drops of oil at home to soften dried-up wax before he or she is able to conduct an extraction.
Book your 30-minute appointment for Ear Wax Removal to speak with our nurse about the best treatment for excessive earwax. We guarantee that the procedure is safe and gentle, leaving your ears feeling clean and clear of debris. Appointments can be made by calling 604-853-8663 or online at www.fraservalleybeltone.com.
Fraser Valley Beltone | 2151 McCallum Road, Unit 410
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