My ear feels blocked or full
You may notice pressure, fullness, muffled hearing or a plugged sensation.
Earwax removal in Bryanston
Blocked ear? Start with a proper ear check.
Earwax can cause fullness, muffled hearing and hearing-aid problems, but not every blocked-ear feeling is wax. We examine the ear first, then guide the appropriate next step.
Otoscopy first
Suitability checked
Referral when needed
Ear check before treatment
The safest next step depends on what the ear looks like and the symptoms you report.
Blocked feelingPressure or fullness
Muffled hearingPossible canal blockage
Hearing aidsFeedback or reduced performance
Before testingClear canal may be needed
Start with the symptom
When might earwax need attention?
Earwax is normal and protective. Removal is generally considered when wax blocks the canal, causes symptoms, affects hearing-aid use or prevents an adequate ear examination.
My hearing aid is not behaving normally
Wax can contribute to feedback, blocked domes or filters, and reduced device performance.
I need an ear check before hearing testing
A clear view of the ear canal may be needed before some audiology tests or ear impressions.
Check first, treat second
Earwax removal is not a one-size-fits-all appointment.
The ear must be examined first. Symptoms, ear history and what can be seen in the canal help determine whether removal is appropriate in the practice or whether another next step is safer.
Not sure it is wax?
A blocked-ear feeling can have more than one cause. An ear check is the sensible starting point.
01
Ear examination
We inspect the ear canal and visible eardrum area before deciding on management.
02
Relevant case history
We ask about symptoms and factors such as pain, discharge, ear surgery, perforation history and infection concerns.
03
Removal where suitable
If appropriate, wax can be managed using the suitable method available at the practice.
04
Referral where needed
If the ear does not look appropriate to manage in practice, we explain the next step and recommend further review.
Your appointment pathway
From blocked feeling to a clear next step.
The process begins with examination, not an assumption that every blocked ear needs the same treatment.
01
Book
Tell us the symptoms and whether you use hearing aids.
02
Check
We examine the ear canal first.
03
Decide
We confirm whether wax management is appropriate.
04
Manage
If suitable, wax is addressed using the appropriate available method.
05
Guide
We explain follow-up, hearing testing or referral when needed.
Before your appointment
Tell us about anything that changes the safety picture.
Please mention pain, discharge, sudden hearing changes, dizziness, known eardrum perforation or previous ear surgery before the appointment.
Avoid pushing objects into the ear canal
Cotton buds or other objects can push wax deeper or irritate the ear. Ask the practice for guidance if you are unsure whether any preparation is appropriate before the appointment.
Ask before you come
Common questions
Earwax removal FAQs
Clear answers before you book.
Can earwax affect my hearing?
Impacted wax can contribute to muffled hearing, a blocked sensation or reduced hearing-aid performance.
Will wax always be removed at the first appointment?
If removal is suitable after examination, it may be managed. If not, the safest next step is explained.
Should I soften the wax before coming?
That depends on the ear history and the situation. Ask the practice when booking rather than assuming the same preparation is suitable for everyone.
Will I need a hearing test?
If hearing does not improve as expected after wax management, or there are other hearing concerns, a hearing assessment may be recommended.
Book the right starting point
Request an ear check or earwax appointment.
Tell us what you are experiencing. The team will contact you to confirm the most suitable appointment.
Appointment suitability depends on ear examination, symptoms, relevant history and safety considerations.