Earwax might seem like an inconvenience, but it’s actually a vital part of your body’s natural defence system. However, too much of it can lead to discomfort, hearing problems, and even infections.
At Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield, we regularly help patients from Dartford, Gravesend, and the surrounding areas with safe, professional Microsuction earwax removal. But a common question we hear is: how often should you get your ears cleaned?
Let’s break it down.
Why Do We Have Earwax?
Earwax (also known medically as cerumen) is more than just a sticky nuisance. It plays several important roles in maintaining healthy ears:
- Protects the ear canal from dust, debris, and harmful bacteria
- Traps foreign particles before they reach the sensitive eardrum
- Moisturises the ear canal, preventing dryness and irritation
- Cleanses itself (in most cases, earwax naturally moves outward, carrying dirt and dead skin cells with it)
For most people, the ear is self-cleaning, meaning you typically don’t need to intervene at all. But when that natural process doesn’t work as intended, blockages and symptoms can occur.
When Is Earwax a Problem?
You may benefit from professional ear cleaning if you experience any of the following:
- Muffled or reduced hearing
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears)
- Dizziness or imbalance
- Ear discomfort, itching, or irritation
- Frequent ear infections
- Difficulty using hearing aids due to wax blockage
If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to consider an ear health check and possibly a professional ear cleaning.
How Often Should You Clean Your Ears?
Contrary to popular belief, earwax doesn’t need to be removed regularly unless it’s causing issues. In fact, excessive cleaning can lead to irritation, dryness, or even infections.
Here are some general guidelines:
- Every 6 to 12 months: For those who are prone to wax buildup
- Every 3 to 6 months: If you wear hearing aids, earplugs, or in-ear headphones frequently (as these can trap wax)
- As needed: If you experience symptoms like hearing loss, discomfort, or a blocked sensation
At Hodgson Pharmacy, we can examine your ears and let you know whether a cleaning is necessary
Why Choose Microsuction Over Other Methods?
When ear cleaning is needed, Microsuction is the gold standard. It’s the method we use at Hodgson Pharmacy because it’s:
- Water-free: Ideal for people with perforated eardrums, past ear infections, or who have had issues with syringing
- Precise: A small suction device is used alongside a microscope or video otoscope for safe, targeted wax removal
- Quick and comfortable: Most procedures take just 15–30 minutes and cause little to no discomfort
- Clinically safe: Performed by trained ear care professionals in a clean, controlled setting
It’s especially popular among those who’ve had bad experiences with traditional ear syringing or DIY treatments.
Avoid DIY Ear Cleaning at Home
Using cotton buds, ear candles, or inserting other objects into your ear canal can be dangerous. These methods can:
- Push wax deeper into the ear instead of removing it
- Damage to he ear canal or eardrum
- Causes infections by introducing bacteria
- Worsen existing symptoms
The best rule of thumb? Don’t put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear! If you feel the need to “clear” your ears regularly, it’s a sign to seek professional advice instead.
Key Takeaways
At Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield, we make ear care simple, safe, and effective. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or just want peace of mind, our team is here to help.
We proudly serve patients across Dartford, Gravesend, and beyond with Microsuction earwax removal you can trust.
Book your ear health check today and hear again with confidence.