What is Ear Microsuctioning?

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Microsuction is one of the safest methods to clean the ear. The specialist treating you looks at your ear using a microscope. This magnifies the ear, making it easier to assess and treat. A suction device is used to clean the ear without the use of water. The gentle suction device works in a similar way to a vacuum cleaner and although it can be quite noisy, it is quick and painless.

 

If the object being removed is hard, then removal can be slightly uncomfortable. The person performing the procedure will always advise you if they feel it is going to be uncomfortable. The procedure tends to be less uncomfortable if a wax softening spray (for example, Earol® olive oil spray which can be purchased over the counter) is used for upto a week before the appointment.

 

 

How can I look after my ears?

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• Do not use cotton buds, scratch or poke your ears. The ear canal naturally cleans itself and when you fiddle with the ears you are more likely to cause them problems such as a build-up of wax or an ear infection.

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• To clean the outside of the ear use a dry tissue or alcohol-free baby wipes around and behind the ear after showering or bathing.

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• Make sure you never use cotton buds, tissues or material to soak up any moisture in your ears. Let them dry naturally.

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• If your ears feel itchy or you have suffered from an ear infection avoid getting water, soap or shampoo into the ear canal when having a bath or shower. Place a piece of cotton wool about the size of a 50p coin, coated with white soft paraffin (which you can buy at a pharmacy), at the entrance of both ear canals. Do not push the cotton wool down into the ear canal as it may be difficult to remove.

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• To keep your ears dry when swimming, you may consider wearing a tight-fitting swimming hat over your ears. Headbands are also available to protect the ears from water. This will also help to keep cotton wool or earplugs in place.

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• If you suffer from itchy or dry skin in your ear canals speak to your local pharmacist or a healthcare professional about treatments available.

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• Do not to use over-the-counter products if there is a chance that your eardrum may be perforated (have a hole in it).