Earwax Removal in Brentwood & Nashville, TN

At Ears 4 U, with locations in Brentwood and Nashville, TN, we understand that earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by your ears to protect them from dirt, bacteria, and excess water. However, excessive earwax buildup can lead to temporary hearing loss, discomfort, and even ear infections.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to address them promptly. Our experienced audiologists at Ears4U can safely and effectively remove excess earwax and help you restore your hearing. Whether you’re dealing with discomfort, muffled hearing, or an ear infection, we’re here to provide professional care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Call to schedule an appointment.

Earwax, also called cerumen, is a natural protectant that helps to keep the ear free of dust and other bothersome particles. Everyone has dealt with earwax before, but for some it can be particularly challenging to maintain the build up of this waxy substance inside their ear canal.

Normally, any excess earwax will migrate outward from the inner ear to the ear canal, where it can be swept away. If the extra earwax is not able to exit the ear, it is likely to harden and begin to block the ear way. These types of blockages can lead to a variety of issues, such as partial hearing loss or even infection.

What Are the Symptoms of an Earwax Blockage?

The signs of excess earwax are often very mild, such as:

  • Difficulty in hearing as well as you used to
  • Earache
  • A plugged or full sensation in the ear
  • Tinnitus (ringing or other noises from within the ear)

Earwax buildup is typically not a cause for great concern so long as it is addressed early on. If these symptoms are ignored, there is potential for them to worsen to the point of a severe infection. You should contact Ears 4 U immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Drainage or discharge from the ear
  • Fever
  • Severe, persistent pain in the ear
  • Sudden bouts of dizziness
  • Worsening hearing loss
  • A foul smelling odor coming from the ear

How Can EARS4U Treat Earwax Buildup?

It is entirely possible for individuals to manage excess earwax on their own by following some of these basic instructions when they begin to notice symptoms of earwax buildup:

  • Soften the earwax using over-the-counter ear drops
  • Irrigate the ear using specialized kit
  • Regularly practice good hygiene skills to prevent earwax from building up

It is imperative that you DO NOT try to insert anything in your ear in order to pull out the extra earwax. This is exactly the reason why so many patients experience issues with earwax in the first place. Inserting any sort of foreign object into the ear should never be done unless by one of our audiologist.

Better Safe Than Sorry

If you have never dealt with a buildup of earwax before, you should see a specialist before trying any home treatments. Attempting a treatment without first being able to accurately diagnose the problem can result in all sorts of complications, which is why it is simply better for you and your health if you get a professional opinion first.

On occasion, the excess earwax may be so severe that over-the-counter medications will be useless in trying to alleviate the person’s symptoms. If this is the case, then EARS 4 U will need to manually remove the earwax using specialized tools and machinery.

Mythbusting: Q-Tips Are Not Your Friend

Many people believe that cotton swabs are effective for ear cleaning, but they can actually push wax deeper into the ear canal, increasing the risk of injury. In fact, we commonly see patients who have accidentally lacerated their ear canals or punctured their eardrums while using Q-tips. For individuals with diabetes or weakened immune systems, these injuries can lead to serious infections.

How should you clean your ears? 

The safest and most effective method is to leave them alone. Your ears are self-cleaning organs, and most of the time, they don’t require any assistance.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of earwax buildup, such as muffled hearing, ear fullness, or itching, it’s best to consult with a hearing healthcare professional at Ears 4 U Hearing Services in Brentwood & Nashville, TN. Our audiologists can safely and effectively remove earwax using gentle irrigation techniques.

At-home ear irrigation is not recommended unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider. If you decide to try it, use only distilled water or a doctor-recommended solution. Improper technique can lead to complications, including dizziness, pain, and ear infections.

Remember, your ears are delicate organs. Proper care is essential for maintaining optimal hearing health.

Don’t let earwax affect your quality of life. Schedule an appointment at Ears 4 U Hearing Services today or call 615-205-7942.