Ears are a part of the body that are often taken for granted; however, as they play a significant role in our lives for both hearing and balance, it is well worth paying attention and looking out for signs that they need professional cleaning to remain in the best health.

Can you clean your own ears?

If your ears seem healthy, you can care for them yourself by gently cleaning the outside; however, do not insert a cotton bud or anything else into the ear. If cleaning the outside is not enough and you are experiencing some of the following signs, it is worth getting your ears professionally cleaned.

If you are unsure how to find someone experienced in ear cleaning, an internet search for your area should yield results; for example, anyone in the Taunton area might search ‘ear wax removal Taunton’ to find results such as //www.earwax.co.uk/ear-wax-removal-near-me/taunton/.

1. Blocked ears

Although ear wax is a natural substance that helps maintain the cleanliness of your ears, too much can cause a blockage in the ear canal. This can leave the ears feeling as if they are clogged. Do not try to remove this yourself; instead, consult a professional.

2. Pain in the ears

Hard wax building up in the ears can cause discomfort or even pain as it presses against the nerves. Cleaning it should relieve the pain. Too much wax is not the only cause of ear pain, so you should consult a doctor if it persists. If you are not sure whether it warrants medical attention, the NHS website has more information.

3. Loss of hearing

The blockage caused by a buildup of wax can cause a sudden loss of hearing. If you are finding you need people to repeat themselves, get your ears professionally cleaned and the problem may be resolved.

4. Change in ear wax colour

If you are familiar with the normal colour of your ear wax, you can look for signs of change. If it is darker than usual, this may mean your ears need a professional clean.