Home » Blog » Ear Health » Blocked Ears? Here’s How to Safely Remove Earwax Without Causing Damage

Blocked Ears? Here’s How to Safely Remove Earwax Without Causing Damage

Blocked ears can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and sometimes painful. Whether you’re experiencing muffled hearing, a sense of pressure, or ringing in your ears, the culprit is often impacted earwax. While trying home remedies is tempting, improper techniques can do more harm than good.

This guide explores how to safely remove earwax, explains the risks of common DIY methods, and introduces microsuction earwax removal, the safest and most effective professional option available at Omnicare Pharmacy.

Content Overview:

Why Ear Wax Forms – and When It Becomes a Problem
What Not to Do: Unsafe Home Remedies to Avoid
How to Safely Remove Earwax at Home (If Mild)
What Is Microsuction Ear Wax Removal?
Why Choose Microsuction at Omnicare Pharmacy?
When to Seek Professional Ear Wax Removal
Final Thoughts

Why Ear Wax Forms - and When It Becomes a Problem

Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It helps protect your ears by trapping dust, debris, and bacteria. Normally, earwax moves to the ear opening and falls out naturally.

However, in some cases, it can build up and become impacted, leading to symptoms such as:

Blocked or muffled hearing
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
A feeling of fullness in the ear
Itchiness or discomfort
Dizziness or imbalance

What Not to Do: Unsafe Home Remedies to Avoid

Many people turn to home methods when trying to manage blocked ears, but these can be ineffective or even dangerous.

1. Cotton Buds

Using cotton buds may seem like a simple solution, but they actually push wax deeper into the ear canal, increasing the risk of impaction or even damaging the eardrum.

2. Ear Candles

Despite their popularity online, ear candles have no proven medical benefit. They pose significant risks, including burns, ear canal blockages, and injury.

3. Oil Drops (Without Guidance)

While olive oil or over-the-counter drops can soften wax, overuse without supervision can cause swelling of the wax, further blocking the ear. Drops should only be used for a short duration and under guidance.

Avoiding these unsafe methods is essential for protecting your hearing health.

How to Safely Remove Earwax at Home (If Mild)

If your symptoms are mild and there’s no history of ear conditions or infections, you can try the following cautious approach:

Step-by-Step Safe Home Care

Use Ear Drops Cautiously:
- Use pharmacy-recommended wax-softening drops, such as olive oil or hydrogen peroxide-based solutions.
- Use for 3–5 days only, as directed on the label.
Lie on Your Side:
- Tilt your head so the affected ear faces upwards.
- Place the drops into the ear and stay in position for a few minutes.
Wipe Away Excess:
- Allow the drops to work and gently wipe away any excess with a clean tissue.
Do Not Rinse the Ear:
- Avoid using water to flush your ears at home. Improper irrigation can cause infections.

If there’s no improvement within a few days or if your hearing worsens, seek professional help.

What Is Microsuction Ear Wax Removal?

If you’re wondering how to remove impacted earwax safely and effectively, microsuction is the recommended clinical solution.

Microsuction ear wax removal involves using a small, medical-grade suction device under visual guidance (using a microscope or loupes) to gently and precisely remove ear wax. No water is involved, making it ideal for people with ear infections, perforated eardrums, or those prone to blockages.

Why Choose Microsuction at Omnicare Pharmacy?

At Omnicare Pharmacy, we offer microsuction earwax removal across our locations, including Edinburgh and Uphall. Our trained professionals ensure the procedure is:

Safe and gentle
Quick and effective, often completed in 15–30 minutes
Suitable for people with sensitive ears or complex ear histories
Provides immediate relief from symptoms

You don’t need a GP referral, and we make booking a consultation easy and accessible for all patients.

When to Seek Professional Ear Wax Removal

You should see a healthcare professional if:

You experience sudden or prolonged hearing loss
You have ringing, dizziness, or pain in your ears
Home treatments are not working
You wear hearing aids or have had ear surgery in the past

Delaying treatment can worsen symptoms and lead to complications. Professional help ensures safe removal and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Earwax is a natural and essential part of your body’s defence system, but it needs to be addressed with care when it becomes impacted. Avoid cotton buds, ear candles, and excessive use of drops; these can do more harm than good.

If you’re dealing with persistently blocked ears, consider microsuction, the safest and most effective method for wax removal. At Omnicare Pharmacy, our ear care specialists are ready to help you hear clearly again. Book your appointment today at our Edinburgh or Uphall clinic for professional earwax removal.

Please note: Services may vary by location. Not all services are available at all Omnicare Pharmacy branches – please check with your local branch for details.

Blocked Ears? Here’s How to Safely Remove Earwax Without Causing Damage

Why Ear Wax Forms - and When It Becomes a Problem