What Is An Ear Lavage?
Ear lavage or irrigation is a medical procedure that is done to slowly and gradually flush out the wax from your ear canal. While maintaining ear hygiene is important, cleaning them with cotton buds would only dig or push the wax deeper down, leading to more harm.
In an ear lavage procedure, the specialist uses water or a saline solution to dislodge the wax buildup. The introduction of the solution is done in a very controlled way, ensuring not to make patients dizzy or uncomfortable. Once it is completed, you will soon have clarity in hearing, with no more discomfort and no more ear blockage.
Why Do You Need To Go For An Ear Lavage?
The following are the reasons that may tell you you need an ear lavage:
Ear Wax Impaction
Some people tend to produce more wax than others. When this wax turns hard and impacted, it cannot be cleared on its own. As a result, it can block your hearing, cause pressure, and also increase the risk of infections.
Ear Blockage Symptoms
Ear lavage becomes important when you experience the symptoms of ear blockage, such as:
- A feeling of fullness in your ear
- Loss of hearing sensations
- Continuous itching, pain, or irritation in the ears
- Ringing sounds or dizziness
To Limit Complications
A blocked ear is a very serious issue. When your earwax traps dirt, moisture, and bacteria, it increases the risk of infections and can even damage your ear canal if not addressed in a timely manner. An ear lavage helps limit these complications by removing the wax plug and restoring your ear hygiene.
Does An Ear Lavage Hurt?
An ear lavage is not painful unless done by an experienced professional. Specialists use the microsuction method and controlled irrigation to clear off the hard wax, and will give you some post-procedure instructions to prevent the ear from clogging again.
While patients don’t experience any pain, a little tingling sensation or slight sensitivity during the lavage is very common.
Note: If you previously had any ear surgery, infection, or have highly sensitive ears, then discuss with your physician thoroughly.
How Often Should You Go For An Ear Lavage?
Every patient has a different ear anatomy and the rate of wax accumulation also differs. Although the recommended cleaning frequency is 12 to 18 months, you must discuss with your physician when your next session for an ear lavage is.
Scheduling your ear debridement appointments in a timely manner can help you avoid ear problems and infections.
The Last Message
Ear lavage is an effective ear wax debridement method that cleanses the ear and prevents infection. Doctors strictly prohibit the use of DIY remedies for wax cleaning because of the sensitive inner parts of the ear.
Choose professional ear lavage from Bharmal Internal Medicine if you want a safe and reliable treatment. Our experts are well-versed in delivering all medical services. You name it, we do it! Give us a call at (817) 784-0052 to book an appointment with our specialist and learn more about us.