When your ears feel blocked or your hearing seems muffled, it might be tempting to reach for a cotton bud or try an online hack to remove the wax yourself. But DIY earwax removal can be more harmful than helpful, and could even damage your ears permanently.
At Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield, we see many patients from Gravesend, Dartford, and the surrounding areas who’ve experienced complications from at-home earwax removal. In this blog, we’ll explain why you should avoid DIY methods and how professional care is the safest and most effective solution.
What Is Earwax, and Why Do We Have It?
Earwax (cerumen) is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It protects your ears by:
- Trapping dust, dirt, and bacteria
- Preventing infections
- Moisturising the skin in the ear canal
In most cases, earwax works its way out naturally through everyday jaw movements like chewing or talking. However, for some people, earwax can build up and cause blockage.
Signs of Earwax Buildup
You may need earwax removal if you experience:
- Muffled hearing
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- Earache
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
- Dizziness
While it may be tempting to try to fix the problem yourself, removing earwax at home can lead to serious risks.
Why DIY Earwax Removal Is Risky
1. You Could Push Wax Deeper
Using cotton buds, bobby pins, or similar objects may push wax further down the ear canal, compacting it against the eardrum. This can worsen blockages and lead to pain, infection, or even temporary hearing loss.
2. Risk of Damage to the Ear Canal or Eardrum
The skin inside the ear is incredibly delicate. Inserting objects can cause small cuts, abrasions, or even puncture the eardrum, potentially resulting in permanent damage or hearing loss.
3. Ineffective Home Remedies
Online suggestions like using candles, olive oil, or hydrogen peroxide can be ineffective or dangerous. Ear candling, for example, has no proven benefit and has caused burns, wax blockages, and injuries.
4. Increased Risk of Infection
Improper cleaning can introduce bacteria into the ear canal or disrupt its natural balance, leading to painful outer ear infections (otitis externa).
Safe and Professional Earwax Removal in Longfield
At Hodgson Pharmacy, we offer professional earwax removal using the microsuction method. This is a safe, gentle, and effective technique that:
- Uses a small suction device to remove excess wax
- Doesn’t involve water or invasive tools
- Is performed by trained professionals
Microsuction is especially recommended for people with narrow ear canals, perforated eardrums, or a history of ear infections.
Why Choose Hodgson Pharmacy?
Residents of Dartford, Gravesend, and Longfield trust Hodgson Pharmacy for:
- Safe, professional earwax removal
- Expert advice from trained pharmacy staff
- A clean, private clinical setting
- Easy online booking and fast appointment availability
Our team will assess your ear health and determine whether wax removal is necessary. If it is, we’ll use the safest and most appropriate method to restore comfort and clarity.
Don’t Risk It. Leave It to the Experts
Your ears are delicate, and they deserve proper care. If you’re experiencing symptoms of earwax buildup, avoid DIY methods and book a consultation at Hodgson Pharmacy. We’ll help you find safe relief and peace of mind.
Book Your Appointment Today
Ready to hear clearly again? Visit us in Longfield or book your earwax removal appointment online. We proudly serve patients from Gravesend, Dartford, and the surrounding communities.