Blocked Ears or Muffled Hearing? Discover How Professional Ear Wax Removal in Harrogate Can Restore Your Clarity and Comfort
- Charlotte Matiba
- Oct 28
- 4 min read
If you are struggling with blocked ears or muffled hearing, it can quickly affect your comfort, confidence, and even your ability to communicate. While ear wax is a natural and essential part of keeping the ear canal healthy, too much of it can cause discomfort and temporary hearing loss. At Horace Hearing, based in Harrogate, our qualified audiologists offer professional ear wax removal using safe, modern techniques to help you hear clearly again.
Why Ear Wax Builds Up
Everyone produces ear wax, also known as cerumen. It acts as a protective layer, trapping dust and preventing bacteria from entering the ear canal. In most cases, the ear naturally clears wax on its own. However, for some people, the wax can build up or become impacted.
Common Causes of Excess Ear Wax
Using cotton buds or hairpins to clean the ears
Narrow or curved ear canals that trap wax
Wearing hearing aids or earplugs frequently
Overproduction of wax due to genetics or skin conditions
Age-related changes, as wax can become drier and harder
When ear wax builds up, it can cause symptoms that are frustrating and sometimes worrying.
Signs You Might Have a Wax Blockage
A balance assessment is a specialist diagnostic test that evaluates how well your balance system is functioning. At Horace Hearing, our trained audiologists use advanced equipment to examine the connection between your ears, eyes, and brain.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Excess ear wax can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
Muffled or reduced hearing
A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
Ringing or buzzing sounds (tinnitus)
Earache or discomfort
Dizziness or imbalance
Itchiness or irritation
If you notice any of these issues, especially sudden hearing loss or pain, it is important to get professional advice. Many people in Harrogate contact Horace Hearing after trying over-the-counter drops or home remedies without success.
Why DIY Ear Wax Removal Can Be Risky
It can be tempting to reach for cotton buds or ear candles, but doing so can make the problem worse. The ear canal is delicate, and self-cleaning attempts can push wax deeper, increasing the risk of damage or infection.
Common DIY mistakes include:
Cotton buds: these push wax further in rather than removing it.
Ear candles: proven to be ineffective and potentially dangerous.
Overuse of drops: can soften wax without removing it, leading to a blocked sensation.
Professional ear wax removal is always the safest option. Our experienced audiologists use gentle, evidence-based methods designed to protect your hearing health.
Professional Ear Wax Removal at Horace Hearing
At our Harrogate clinic, we specialise in microsuction and irrigation, the two most effective techniques for safe ear wax removal.
Microsuction
Microsuction is a gentle and precise method that uses a small, sterile suction device to remove wax under direct visual guidance. It is quick, clean, and suitable for most patients, including those with sensitive ears or previous ear conditions.
Irrigation
For some clients, irrigation may be used, where a controlled flow of warm water helps flush out softened wax. Our audiologists assess which technique is most appropriate based on your ear health and comfort.
Both procedures are carried out using medical-grade equipment in a calm, hygienic environment. You can usually hear clearly again immediately after treatment.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
At Horace Hearing, we want every client to feel at ease. When you arrive for your ear wax removal appointment, you will be greeted by our friendly team at our Harrogate clinic.
Your appointment includes:
Consultation and Examination: we review your medical history and use an otoscope to assess your ears.
Wax Removal Procedure: using microsuction or irrigation, depending on your needs.
Post-Treatment Care Advice: our audiologist will discuss your results, provide aftercare guidance, and recommend any future check-ups.
The process typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, and you will be able to return to your daily activities straight after.
Why Choose Horace Hearing in Harrogate
Choosing a qualified audiologist makes all the difference when it comes to safe ear care.
Experienced Professionals: founded and led by Charlotte Matiba, a qualified audiologist and neuroscientist with over ten years of experience.
Specialist Techniques: we use hospital-grade microsuction equipment.
Personal Service: our appointments are never rushed, ensuring comfort and reassurance.
Trusted Locally: we are proud of our five-star reviews on Doctify, reflecting the satisfaction of patients across Harrogate and Leeds.
Convenient Booking: appointments are available throughout the week, with same-day availability where possible.
Our clinic is independent, which means our advice is completely focused on what is best for your ear health.
Local Care You Can Trust
As a proud Harrogate-based audiology clinic, we are part of the local community. Patients often visit us after being referred by friends, family, or local pharmacies who know our reputation for safe and reliable ear care. Whether you are in Harrogate, Leeds, or nearby Knaresborough, you can count on expert service from a trusted local provider.
Ready to Hear Clearly Again? Book Your Appointment Today
If you have been struggling with blocked ears, discomfort, or muffled hearing, now is the perfect time to book your appointment for professional ear wax removal in Harrogate. Our expert audiologists are here to help you hear clearly again.
Or contact us directly at 01423 601130 or info@horacehearing.co.uk.
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