Impacted earwax treatment
There are several options when it comes to impacted earwax treatment:
Earwax removal at home
The saying ‘never put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear’ rings true. However ‘full’ or irritated your ears may feel, don’t be tempted to clean them using small items such as cotton buds. They can actually push the wax deeper into your ear canal, resulting not just in impacted earwax, but possible infection or a perforated eardrum.
Instead of reaching for the cotton buds or diy home remedies, speak to your GP or pharmacist as they’ll be able to advise which over-the-counter products will be best for your situation. Alternatively, take a look at our tips for cleaning your ears at home.
Professional earwax removal
Impacted earwax can be painful, make it hard to hear, and the irritation it causes can result in infection. So it’s important that you have it professionally removed, whether by your GP or by practitioners such as our team.
Our practitioners can safely and effectively remove wax and debris using a gentle microsuction technique developed by ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists.
Depending on the extent of the build-up, you may need a second appointment, but our team will be able to advise you if that’s the case.
Find out more about our earwax removal services.
When to see your GP
While some earwax removal can be carried out safely at home or by our team at Boots, there are some instances when it’s best to see your GP. Always speak to your doctor if:
- You’re vomiting
- Your ears are painful
- You have discharge coming from your ear
- You have a fever
- The blockage is making it difficult to hear
- Your ear is still blocked after using ear drops for five days