Ear Lavages

Gentle, Professional Relief for Clearer Hearing and Health

An ear lavage, also commonly referred to as ear irrigation, is a procedure used to safely remove excessive earwax (cerumen) or foreign objects from the ear canal. Earwax is a natural, healthy substance that cleans and protects your ear, but when it accumulates and hardens, a condition called cerumen impaction can cause uncomfortable symptoms.

When a blockage occurs, an ear lavage procedure involves gently flushing the ear canal with a stream of warm water or a saline solution. This controlled, mild flow of fluid is designed to soften the hardened wax and safely wash it out of the ear.

Cryoprobe Treat at Fairway Children's Medical Group

Why is professional ear lavage necessary?

While some people attempt at-home remedies, a clinical ear lavage is the safest and most effective method to ensure:

- Safety: A healthcare professional can first examine the ear to confirm the eardrum is intact and that no infection or other condition exists, minimizing the risk of complications like eardrum perforation or infection.

- Effectiveness: The clinician can use the proper technique, equipment (like a specialized syringe or electronic irrigator), and appropriate fluid temperature to dislodge the impacted wax completely.

- Relief from Symptoms: Impaction can cause discomfort, a feeling of fullness, dizziness, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and even temporary hearing loss. Professional removal provides immediate relief from these bothersome symptoms.

Ear Lavages Q&A

What are the common signs that I might need an ear lavage?

The most common signs of impacted earwax that may require an ear lavage include:

👉 Sudden or partial hearing loss, which may worsen over time.

👉 A feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear.

👉 Earache or discomfort.

👉 Tinnitus (a ringing or buzzing sound in the ear).

👉 Dizziness or a feeling of imbalance.

👉 Itching in the ear canal.

Is an ear lavage a painful procedure?

No, an ear lavage is generally not painful when performed correctly by a trained professional. You will typically feel a sensation of warmth and a gentle pressure or bubbling within the ear canal as the warm water is introduced. If you feel any sharp pain or severe dizziness, the procedure is stopped immediately. In some cases, a clinician may recommend using softening drops for a few days before the procedure to make the wax removal even gentler.

If I suspect my child has earwax impaction, where can I go for safe, professional ear lavage?

If your child is experiencing symptoms of earwax impaction, it is important to seek professional pediatric care for a proper diagnosis and safe removal. We are pleased to offer this gentle and necessary service at Fairway Children's Medical Group. Our pediatricians are trained to safely evaluate and manage cerumen impaction in children using methods like ear lavage, ensuring a comfortable and effective experience for your little one.

For safe and professional ear lavage and all your child's ear health needs, trust the experienced providers at Fairway Children's Medical Group.