Ear Wax Removal in Elderly Patients: Special Considerations and Benefits

From hearing issues to discomfort and even impacted earwax, excess earwax can cause serious problems for elderly patients.

These challenges can make the day-to-day life of older people more difficult. But the good news is that regular earwax removal can help in preventing these issues.

In this blog, we’ll discuss why older people need professional earwax removal services, which is the safest method for them, and how it can significantly improve the quality of their life.

Why is earwax removal important for elderly patients?

Elderly patients need earwax removal as it prevents various health issues, including:

1.    Hearing loss prevention: Excess earwax can lead to temporary hearing loss as it blocks the ear canal. For elderly patients who already experience age-related hearing decline, this can make the communication challenges even worse. 

2.    Discomfort and pain: If excess earwax is not treated, it can lead to pain, irritation, or even infections. Through regular earwax removal, these risks can be reduced.

3.    Balance and coordination: Our ears play an important role in balance. Ears that have been blocked due to wax buildup can affect balance. This increases the risk of falls in older people.

4.    Tinnitus: Elderly patients are more prone to tinnitus, and earwax buildup can make the symptoms of tinnitus even worse.

Which is the best earwax removal method for elderly patients?

There are various earwax removal methods available. However, when it comes to older people, certain methods are more suitable:

1.    Ear syringing: Traditional ear syringing is a method that uses water to flush out earwax. Although it is effective, it comes with risks. If it is not performed properly, it can lead to ear infections.

2.    Ear microsuction: This is an advanced technique that involves using a small vacuum to remove earwax safely under direct visualisation. It is more ideal for elderly patients as it is gentler, more precise, and reduces the risks that are associated with ear syringing.

Special consideration for earwax removal in the elderly

While choosing an earwax removal method for the elderly, there are several considerations that must be taken into account:

1.    Sensitive ear canals: Since elderly patients may have more delicate ear canals, it is important to opt for non-invasive techniques like ear microsuction.

2.    Reduced mobility: Elderly patients may face mobility challenges, which makes ear care at home difficult for them. Hence, ear microsuction is the best method for them as it is safer and doesn’t require much aftercare.

3.    Hearing aids: Many elderly people wear hearing aids, and earwax buildup can affect their functionality. Microsuction offers thorough cleaning and doesn’t damage hearing aids.

What are the benefits of ear microsuction for elderly patients?

Ear microsuction offers several benefits to older people. Here are a few of them:

1.    Precision: Ear microsuction reduces the risk of damage to the ear canal as it is a more precise method than other methods.

2.    Non-invasive: Discomfort and risk of infection are reduced in ear microsuction as there’s no forceful use of water in this method.

3.    Effective and quick: Ear microsuction is usually quicker than traditional earwax removal methods and the results are immediate.

If you are concerned about elderly patients in your home and looking for effective earwax removal service, feel free to contact us to learn about ear microsuction cost.

Book an appointment for ear microsuction services

By improving hearing and reducing the risks of ear infections, regular earwax removal significantly benefits elderly patients.

At Pearl Chemist Group, we provide affordable, professional, and safe earwax removal services for the elderly.

So, schedule an appointment and visit us in Morden, Streatham, Tolworth, Tooting, and Wandsworth to prioritise ear health.