The Island’s Ear Care Service

Welcome To

Ear Health


What is earwax?

Earwax is an oily substance comprised of secretions in the ear canal. It is produced as part of our body’s normal process to protect the ear canal. The glands in our outer ear secrete it to trap dirt, dust and microorganisms, protecting the eardrum.

It moisturises the skin inside our ear canal, preventing our ears from becoming too dry. Earwax usually migrates out of the ear by itself from its natural cleaning process.

Earwax is not a sign of poor hygiene. The medical term “cerumen” is there for a reason, it maintains our ear health as well as having anti-bacterial properties.

What causes excessive earwax?

Some people produce more earwax then others, which can lead to a build up if not managed properly. This is especially common in people with narrow or unusually shaped ear canals. Excessive earwax build up can also vary depending on: ethnicity, age, environment, hearing devices ,skin conditions and health conditions.

Symptoms of earwax build-up

When earwax builds up excessively or becomes impacted, it can cause a variety of symptoms. These can range from mild discomfort to more serious issues if the build-up is not addressed. Such as, hearing loss, ear discomfort, blocked feeling, itchy ears, tinnitus (ringing or buzzing) and even dizziness.

Preventing earwax build-up

You cannot prevent earwax from producing in the ear canal. Remember it is there for a reason! But regularly using an olive oil spray will help keep the earwax soft to help it fall out on its own. Keep on top of your ear health routine appointments, so your ear care specialist can monitor the accumulation of earwax.


What to avoid

Excessive cleaning of the ears can irritate the ear canal and stimulate more earwax production. Avoid inserting any objects into your ears, such as cotton buds. This will push the earwax deeper into your ear canal potentially damaging your eardrum.

Avoid the use of ear candles, they do not help to remove earwax and can seriously damage your ear. Trust your ears cleaning process!

Email: wightearcare@outlook.com

Tel: 07943789702

Open Mon/Sun 9.30am-5pm

Clinic address: The Foot Therapy Centre, 1A Chain Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5QA