The ear wax removal pandemic

Social media is saturated with an unprecedented number of wannabe ear care professionals from nutritionalists to pharmacists to the your local gardener there is no end to the the number of people looking to make a quick buck from ear wax removal. With long lists of qualifications which to the lay person looks impressive you only have to dig a little deeper to ascertain that they have no experience of even looking in an ear let alone removing wax from it.

Microsuction is generally considered a safe method for earwax removal, but when performed by untrained or unregulated practitioners, it can pose significant risks. Some potential dangers include:

• Hearing Damage: The suction process can be loud, sometimes reaching up to 140 decibels, which may cause temporary or even permanent hearing loss if performed improperly.
• Tinnitus and Hyperacusis: Some individuals have reported developing tinnitus or increased sensitivity to sound after microsuction, possibly due to excessive noise exposure during the procedure.
• Ear Canal Injury: If the practitioner lacks proper training, they may accidentally cause abrasions or damage to the delicate skin inside the ear canal.
• Lack of Regulation: Without proper oversight, there may be inconsistencies in hygiene standards, equipment maintenance, and patient safety protocols, increasing the risk of complications.

It is important to be aware that there is currently no regulation in respect of who can undertake this procedure with many people only having completed a ”mickey mouse” 3 day course prior to setting up in business. Regulation and proper training are crucial to ensuring that micro suction remains a safe and effective procedure particularly for children and vulnerable adults. If you’re considering it, please seek a qualified professional with experience in ear care. There is no substitute for extensive training and experience.

As an NHS accredited ear care professional I have over 15 years experience of wax removal in children and adults. Book your appointment today.