AUDIOLOGY

Therapies: microsuction wax removal and balance rehabilitation.

Audiology Oxfordshire

We use NICE (National Institute of Clinical Excellence) recommended methods of wax removal. Microsuction is one of the safest and gentlest forms of wax removal that can be used for one or both ears.

This usually takes one visit, but can take two if the wax is very dry, impacted and hard. It involves using a microscope to see the wax and a small suction tube to gently remove the wax. You may feel a slight tugging sensation during the wax removal.

Audiology Oxfordshire
Earwax removal

Microsuction wax removal

Wax removal by microsuction can reduce symptoms of:

  • Ears feeling blocked
  • Temporary hearing loss
  • Ear discomfort
  • Fullness of the ear
  • Earache
  • Tinnitus (a ringing or noise in the ear)
  • Vertigo

What can help?

Solutions that can help with ear wax removal are ear drop use. These include using 2-3 drops of olive oil for 3-5 days daily or sodium bicarbonate 5% ear drops. Almond oil can be used but it can cause allergies for those with nut allergies.

What will happen during my wax removal appointment?

  1. We will take a history of your symptoms
  2. We will examine your ear
  3. We will remove the wax with microsuction or dry methods
  4. We will offer any further advice that you need on your hearing, tinnitus, aftercare or balance.

For more information on wax removal: cks.nice.org.uk/topics/earwax/

Balance rehabilitation

Did you know 50% of people who experience balance problems feel anxious. We use a holistic approach to reduce the anxiety that patients experience when they suffer from dizziness and improve their quality of life.

Balance rehabilitation aims to help patients improve their balance with dizziness relating to their ears. This involves working closely with the patient to tailor individual exercise plans to help reset their balance system. This is called central compensation. It normally takes 8-12 weeks to improve. This normally takes 2-6 sessions depending on the condition.

This involves including conditions such as:

  • Labyrinthitis
  • Vestibular neuronitis
  • Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
  • Vestibular hypofunction
  • Chronic dizziness (persistent postural-perceptual dizziness).

For more information: Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT)

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