Is ear wax removal still available on the NHS?

Since 2018, most NHS GP practices stopped routinely providing ear wax removal. Current nhs.uk advice on ear wax build-up is to treat it yourself with olive oil drops or to speak with a pharmacist about available treatments.

Where symptoms persist, or where ears are badly blocked, affecting an individual’s hearing, some GP practices may offer ear wax removal using irrigation or microsuction, however most will advise that you have to pay to have these performed privately.

_{Watch senior audiologist, Adam Bostock, explain why ear wax removal is not always available on the NHS.}

In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the NHS’s current stance on ear wax removal. From the potential risks associated with the procedure to the financial constraints faced by the healthcare system, we will uncover the complexities surrounding this issue and shed light on alternative solutions available to those in need.

If you are you one of the many individuals who have struggled with excessive ear wax build-up, only to be turned away by the NHS for wax removal, you’re not alone. The absence of ear wax removal services on the NHS has become an issue for countless people seeking relief from this common problem. Excessive ear wax build-up affects many people of all ages and it can occur due to various factors, including genetics, age, and the use of hearing aids or earplugs.

Symptoms of ear wax build-up may include earache, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness, and partial hearing loss, and, while some individuals may be able to manage their ear wax concerns through regular cleaning and self-care, others may require professional assistance for safe and effective ear wax removal.

Therefore, the absence of ear wax removal services on the NHS comes as a surprise to many. After all, ear wax build-up is a prevalent issue that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. However, there are two main reasons behind the NHS’s current stance on ear wax removal:

1. Potential risks associated with ear wax removal procedures

One of the primary concerns to the NHS are the potential risks associated with ear wax removal procedures.

Ear wax removal, if not done correctly, can lead to complications such as ear canal injuries, infections, and damage to the eardrum. To minimise these risks, the NHS must ensure that only qualified healthcare professionals perform wax removal procedures. However, the availability of such professionals may be limited, leading to a shortage of ear wax removal services at GP practices.

2. Financial constraints on the NHS

Financial constraints also play a significant role in the absence of ear wax removal services on the NHS. The healthcare system faces numerous challenges in allocating resources effectively, and providing wax removal services to every individual with ear wax concerns may not be financially feasible within current budgets.

As a result, many NHS GP services may prioritise services for urgent and life-threatening conditions, leaving what they describe as non-essential procedures, like ear wax removal, to be managed through alternative means.

The absence of ear wax removal services on the NHS can have a significant impact on patients who require professional assistance to manage their ear wax build-up.

Without access to NHS ear wax removal, individuals may experience prolonged discomfort, reduced hearing, and an increased risk of developing complications such as ear infections. Furthermore, the lack of affordable and easily accessible options for wax removal may lead some individuals to resort to unsafe methods of ear wax removal, such as using ear candles, or cotton buds and other objects to clean their ears, which can worsen the problem and potentially cause injury.

The impact of the absence of ear wax removal services on the NHS is not limited to physical discomfort. Many individuals also experience emotional distress and a decreased quality of life due to the limitations imposed by the symptoms of their ear wax build-up. Difficulties in communication, social interactions, and even work performance can arise as a result of untreated ear wax concerns.

It is, therefore, crucial to address this issue and explore alternative solutions that can help individuals effectively manage their ear wax build-up.

While the NHS may not always provide ear wax removal services, there are alternative options available for individuals seeking relief from their ear wax concerns. One of the most straightforward alternatives is self-care.

Regular cleaning of the outer ear with a warm, damp facecloth can help remove excess ear wax and prevent build-up. However, it is important to note that inserting any objects into the ear canal, such as cotton swabs or ear candles, should be avoided as they can push the wax further into the ear or cause injury.

Over-the-counter remedies, such as sodium bicarbonate ear drops, can also be used as a non-invasive method to soften the ear wax, making it easier to remove naturally. These drops help break down the ear wax and facilitate its removal. It is recommended to follow the instructions provided with the ear drops and consult a healthcare professional if the symptoms persist or worsen.

^{Professional, private ear wax removal using gentle irrigation.}

For individuals with more severe or persistent ear wax build-up, seeking private options for ear wax removal may be necessary. Private hearing clinics and audiologists offer specialised services for ear wax removal, utilising safe and effective techniques such as microsuction or irrigation. While private options may come at a cost (see below), they provide an accessible solution for individuals who require professional assistance but are unable to access NHS ear wax removal services.

Given the limited availability of ear wax removal through the NHS, a diverse range of establishments have begun to offer these services in order to meet the rising demand. Therefore, ensuring the authenticity of professional credentials is crucial when choosing a private ear wax removal service.

Sadly, the current state of private ear wax removal services in the UK can be characterised as largely unregulated, with professionals ranging from chiropodists to pharmacists stepping in to offer this service.

^{A private audiologist examining a patient’s ear health during an ear wax removal consultation.}

Ideally, we recommend that individuals seek out a specialist in the field for ear wax removal, preferably a qualified audiologist. In addition to having the skills to safely perform the procedure, audiologists possess the expertise necessary to identify any unusual findings that may necessitate a referral to another healthcare professional, thereby ensuring the best possible care for your ears.

In the UK, you can expect to pay between £50 and £150, per session, for private ear wax removal, depending on your location, the specific procedure used, and the expertise of the healthcare professional. It is important to note that this cost may not be covered by private healthcare insurance, making private ear wax removal services an out-of-pocket expense for most individuals seeking this option.

Despite the cost, private ear wax removal services can provide a valuable solution for those who require professional assistance and are unable to access NHS ear wax removal services. For those who can afford it, it’s worth weighing the benefits against the costs of private options by considering the potential impact of excessive ear wax on your overall well-being and quality of life.

The absence of ear wax removal services on the NHS has left many individuals frustrated and seeking change. Advocacy groups and concerned individuals have been urging policymakers and healthcare authorities to reconsider the current policies and allocate resources for ear wax removal services.

By highlighting the impact of untreated ear wax concerns on individuals’ health and well-being, these advocates aim to raise awareness and bring about changes that will benefit those struggling with excessive ear wax build-up.

Engaging in advocacy efforts can take various forms, including contacting local representatives, sharing personal stories and experiences, and supporting organisations that champion the cause. By amplifying the voices of those affected by the absence of ear wax removal on the NHS, it is possible to create a dialogue and push for reforms that prioritise the management of ear wax concerns as an essential aspect of overall healthcare.

Article by Adam Bostock