Ear irrigation, also known as ear syringing or ear lavage, is a procedure used to remove a build-up of earwax (cerumen) from the ear canal. It involves flushing the ear canal with a gentle stream of warm water using equipment designed specifically for the purpose.

Earwax is normal and healthy, and in most people the ear clears itself without help. Irrigation is only appropriate where wax has genuinely built up and is causing symptoms such as a feeling of blockage, muffled hearing or discomfort.

Before your appointment

You will need to soften the wax first. Use olive oil or an over-the-counter ear drop in the affected ear two to three times a day for at least five days before your appointment. Without this, irrigation is much less likely to work and more likely to be uncomfortable. Do not use cotton buds or ear candles, as both can make things worse.

What to expect

The appointment takes around 45 minutes. Your ears are examined first, and irrigation only goes ahead if it is appropriate for you. During the procedure you will feel warm water in the ear and may hear a rushing sound. Most people find it comfortable and the relief is usually immediate. You can go straight back to your day afterwards.

Afterwards

Some people notice mild dizziness, itching or a slight ringing for a short time. Keep the ears dry for 24 hours. Contact your GP if you experience pain, discharge, bleeding or a lasting change in your hearing.

Who it is not suitable for

Ear irrigation is not carried out if you have or have ever had a perforated eardrum, grommets or a history of ear surgery, an active ear infection or discharge, ear pain, a foreign body in the ear, a previous bad reaction to irrigation, or hearing in one ear only. It is also not suitable for those with certain skin conditions affecting the ear canal, or where the eardrum cannot be seen. We will examine your ears first and will tell you honestly if irrigation is not appropriate, in which case we will refer you back to your GP or an audiologist.

Ear irrigation is a wax removal service. We do not diagnose or treat hearing loss, tinnitus, infections or any other ear condition. Any hearing change or ear symptom should be assessed by your GP or an audiologist.