Safe, Gentle Earwax Removal for Clearer Hearing
Earwax (also called cerumen) is a natural protective substance produced by your ears. It helps trap dust, protect the ear canal skin, and keep the ear clean. But when too much builds up, it can cause discomfort, reduce hearing, or lead to irritation. At Bowles Hearing Care Services (serving Charlotte, Hickory, Mooresville, and Huntersville), we help you manage earwax safely and comfortably.
Schedule Your Earwax RemovalSigns You Might Need Earwax Removal
If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be time for a professional earwax check:
Hearing seems muffled or reduced
A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
Itching or irritation inside the ear canal
Ringing (tinnitus) in the ears
Discomfort, odor, or occasional drainage
Trouble using hearing aids because of blockage
Safe Methods We Use
Depending on how much wax is present, how hard it is, and your ear health, we may use one or more of the following methods:
- Softening Drops — Gentle agents to loosen hardened wax before removal.
- Manual Removal / Curette — Under direct vision, using tools to scoop or gently extract wax.
- Gentle Suction or Suction Devices — Carefully removing wax without pushing it deeper.
- Flush or Irrigation — Guided warm-fluid rinsing, when appropriate and safe.
After removal, we inspect the ear canal to ensure all wax is cleared and that your eardrum is healthy.
What to Avoid
To protect your ears and avoid worsening blockages:
- Don’t insert cotton swabs or sharp objects into your ear canal. These can push wax deeper, cause damage, or lead to infections.
- Avoid home remedies like ear candling or unverified tools that claim to “pull” wax out—they are not safe or effective.
- Be cautious with over-irrigation or using liquids that are too hot or cold. Temperature extremes can cause dizziness or irritation.
