Earwax is your body’s natural way of keeping your ears clean and protected. It traps dust, bacteria, and debris, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. For most people, earwax exits the ear naturally without any problems. However, some individuals produce more wax than others or experience buildup that causes blockages, discomfort, or even hearing loss.
One of the most common questions our team at Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield (near Dartford and Gravesend) hears is:
“How often should I have earwax professionally removed?”
The answer depends on your individual ear health, habits, and lifestyle. Let’s explore how often you might need professional ear cleaning and when to schedule your next microsuction appointment.
Understanding Earwax: Why It Forms and When It Becomes a Problem
Earwax, also known as cerumen, is produced by glands in your ear canal. It serves a protective purpose, lubricating the skin and reducing the risk of infection. In most cases, the ear naturally pushes out old wax as new wax forms.
However, earwax can become problematic when it:
- Builds up faster than it clears
- Hardens and becomes impacted
- Gets pushed deeper by cotton buds, earphones, or hearing aids
When this happens, symptoms such as muffled hearing, earache, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or dizziness can occur.
That’s when professional earwax removal, particularly microsuction, is the safest and most effective solution.
How Often Should You Have Earwax Removed?
There isn’t a single “right” answer for everyone. However, most ear care specialists recommend having your ears checked or cleaned every 6 to 12 months, depending on your individual situation.
Here’s a quick guide for different groups:
1. Hearing Aid Users
If you wear hearing aids, you should schedule ear checks every 3 to 6 months. Hearing aids can block natural wax migration, causing buildup behind the device. Excess wax can also affect the sound quality or cause feedback. Regular microsuction helps maintain both ear health and hearing aid performance.
2. Frequent Swimmers or Divers
Regular exposure to water can soften earwax and make it more likely to clump together or trap moisture, increasing the risk of infections. Swimmers and divers should consider ear checks every 6 months, especially if they experience recurring ear blockages or “swimmer’s ear.”
3. Older Adults
As we age, earwax becomes drier and harder to expel naturally. Older adults are more prone to impaction and should aim for annual or twice-yearly earwax removal appointments to prevent discomfort and hearing issues.
4. People Prone to Excessive Earwax
Some people simply produce more wax than others due to genetics or skin conditions like eczema. If you notice repeated blockages, quarterly microsuction (every 3 months) can help you stay comfortable and maintain clear hearing.
5. After Illness or Infection
If you’ve had a recent ear infection, cold, or sinus issue, it’s best to have your ears checked. Illness can cause temporary inflammation or wax build-up that affects hearing.
How to Prevent Earwax Build-Up Between Appointments
You can reduce the likelihood of earwax problems with a few simple habits:
- Avoid using cotton buds or other objects in your ears.
- Use olive oil or ear drops occasionally to soften wax (consult your pharmacist first).
- Keep your ears dry after swimming or showering.
- Schedule regular ear checks at your local pharmacy.
At Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield, our team provides both microsuction earwax removal and expert aftercare advice to help you maintain healthy ears all year long.
Why Choose Hodgson Pharmacy for Ear Care
- Local and trusted: Located in Longfield, easily accessible from Dartford and Gravesend.
- Qualified clinicians: Experienced in safe and gentle microsuction techniques.
- Same-day or next-day appointments available for quick relief.
- Private, comfortable consultation rooms.
- Ongoing ear care, from initial removal to prevention and advice.
Find us easily on Google Maps: Hodgson Pharmacy, Longfield
Your ears deserve regular care, just like your teeth or eyes. Prevent problems before they start. Book your microsuction appointment today.
FAQs About Earwax Removal
Q: How often should I have microsuction done?
Most people benefit from an appointment every 6 to 12 months. Hearing aid users or those prone to wax buildup may need checks every 3 to 6 months.
Q: Why do I have so much earwax?
Genetics, ear shape, or using earbuds and cotton buds can increase earwax production or block natural removal.
Q: How can I prevent earwax from building up?
Avoid inserting anything into your ears and keep them dry. Using softening drops occasionally can help maintain balance.
Q: Is microsuction safe?
Yes. Microsuction is one of the safest and most effective ways to remove earwax, no water, no pressure, and minimal risk of infection.
Q: Do I need a referral for microsuction?
No, you can book directly with Hodgson Pharmacy.