Choose Between Earwax Removing Drops, Microsuction, or Both
If your ear feels blocked, muffled, or uncomfortable, earwax is often the cause. Many people start with earwax removing drops because they are easy to use at home and widely available. However, drops are not always enough on their own, especially when wax is impacted or symptoms have been lingering for a while. At Mistrys Pharmacy, we help you choose the best approach based on your symptoms and what is most likely to work quickly and safely. If you want fast support, book an appointment or reach out to us today.
Why Earwax Builds Up In The First Place
Earwax (also called cerumen) is completely normal and plays an important role in protecting your ears. It traps dust and debris, helps prevent infection, and supports the health of the ear canal. The problem happens when wax builds up faster than it naturally clears, creating a blockage.
Common reasons earwax becomes impacted include:
- Narrow or curved ear canals
- Frequent use of earbuds or earplugs
- Wearing hearing aids
- Attempting to clean ears with cotton buds
- Dry or flaky skin conditions
- Natural changes with age
When wax becomes impacted, it can cause:
- A blocked or “full” feeling in the ear
- Reduced hearing
- Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
- Mild dizziness
- Discomfort or itching
- A feeling that your ear needs popping but cannot
If you are dealing with any of these symptoms, contact us or book an appointment for guidance and the right next step.
Option 1: Earwax Removing Drops
Earwax removing drops are often the first choice because they are simple, affordable, and can work well for mild or moderate wax build-up. Drops help soften wax, making it easier for the ear to clear naturally over time.
Earwax removing drops may be a good option if:
- Your symptoms are mild
- The blockage feels recent
- You do not have pain or discharge
- You have had earwax issues before and drops have helped
- You are preparing for wax removal and need to soften the wax first
However, drops have limitations. They can take several days to work and may not clear stubborn or impacted wax on their own.
It is also common for symptoms to feel worse at first. As wax softens, it can shift and temporarily block the ear more fully. This can be frustrating, but it does not always mean the drops are failing.
Option 2: Microsuction
Microsuction is one of the most effective and controlled methods of earwax removal available. It involves using a small suction device to remove wax from the ear canal under direct visual guidance. Many people prefer this approach because it is quick, precise, and does not rely on flushing the ear with water.
Microsuction can be particularly suitable if:
- Your ear feels fully blocked
- Symptoms have lasted more than a week
- You have tried earwax removing drops with little improvement
- You want faster relief due to travel, work, or events
- You wear hearing aids and wax is affecting performance
- You have recurring wax build-up
At Mistrys Pharmacy, we offer professional microsuction in Market Harborough to help you restore hearing clarity and reduce discomfort safely.
If you want to resolve the problem quickly, book now or contact us to arrange an appointment.
Option 3: Using Both Drops And Microsuction Together
For many people, the best approach is not choosing between one or the other, but combining both. Using earwax removing drops for a few days before microsuction can make wax softer and easier to remove, particularly if it is very dry or impacted.
A combined approach may be the best choice if:
- Wax feels stubborn and deep
- You have had blockages that required removal before
- You want the most efficient microsuction appointment
- Your hearing is noticeably reduced
- You have tried drops but only had partial improvement
In many cases, drops can prepare the ear canal so microsuction is quicker and more comfortable. We can advise you on how long to use drops based on your symptoms and appointment timing. Contact us if you would like help planning your treatment.
When To Stop Using Earwax Removing Drops
There are times when continuing with drops is not the best idea. If symptoms are getting worse or you are experiencing pain, you should seek professional support rather than repeatedly trying different products.
You should stop using earwax removing drops and get advice if you have:
- Ear pain or sharp discomfort
- Discharge from the ear
- Sudden hearing loss
- Fever or signs of infection
- Dizziness that feels severe
- A history of perforated eardrum or ear surgery
If you are unsure, it is always safer to contact us for guidance. We can help you decide whether microsuction is a better option.
Mid-Point Check In: What Should You Choose?
If you are trying to choose between earwax removing drops, microsuction, or both, it often comes down to the severity of blockage and how quickly you need relief.
A quick guide can help:
Choose earwax removing drops if:
- Symptoms are mild
- You have time to wait a few days
- You do not have pain or significant hearing loss
Choose microsuction if:
- Your ear feels fully blocked
- You need fast relief
- Drops have not helped
- You want a more direct solution
Choose both if:
- Wax feels impacted or long-standing
- You want the best chance of quick, complete removal
- You want to soften the wax before your appointment
If you want to skip the guesswork, book an appointment or contact us, and we will help you choose the best plan.
Microsuction FAQs for Leicestershire Patients
Here are some common questions we hear from patients who already understand what microsuction is, but want more detail before booking.
How long does microsuction usually take?
Most appointments are relatively quick, but timing depends on how much wax is present and whether it is impacted.
Is microsuction suitable if I wear hearing aids?
Yes, and it is often a good option because hearing aids can contribute to wax build-up and wax can affect hearing aid performance.
Do I need to use drops before microsuction?
Not always. Some people benefit from using drops for a few days beforehand, particularly with hard wax. We can advise what is best for you.
Will microsuction improve my hearing straight away?
If wax is the cause of hearing reduction, many people notice improvement immediately after removal.
Can microsuction cause dizziness?
Some people experience brief dizziness, but it is usually short-lived. Let us know if you are prone to vertigo or ear sensitivity.
What if only one ear feels blocked?
It is still worth having both ears checked, as wax build-up can be present in the other ear without obvious symptoms.
How often do people need microsuction?
It varies. Some people only need it occasionally, while others benefit from regular checks, particularly if they are prone to wax build-up.
Can earwax come back after microsuction?
Yes, it can. Microsuction removes current wax blockage, but it does not stop your ears producing wax naturally. We can advise on prevention and maintenance.
The Safest Way To Get Lasting Relief
Earwax is normal, but when it builds up it can be disruptive and uncomfortable. Earwax removing drops are a good first step for many people, but microsuction is often the best choice when symptoms are persistent, wax is impacted, or you want faster relief.
At Mistrys Pharmacy and Ear Clinic, we are proud to offer professional microsuction in Market Harborough and clear guidance on whether drops, microsuction, or both will work best for you. If your ear feels blocked and you want it sorted properly, get in touch with us or book an appointment today.
This blog was written on behalf of Mistrys Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
