Ear wax is a natural by-product of the human body, and although it can be annoying at times, it’s generally considered harmless. That said, ear wax can become an issue if it accumulates to a point where it becomes difficult to clean or causes discomfort. If this sounds like you, don’t panic—you can get ear wax removed at urgent care. Here are some tips on how to make the process as smooth as possible.
What is ear wax?
Ear wax is a soft, white material that accumulates in the ears over time. It can plug up the ear canal and cause hearing problems. Ear wax can also block ear infections from spreading. People usually remove ear wax using a cotton ball and water.
What causes ear wax?
There are various reasons why someone might produce ear wax. The most common include:
– Sweating
– Flushing
– Congestion in the sinus area
– Ear infections
– Aging
– Chemical exposures, such as from cleaning products or industrial work
Most people produce a little ear wax every day. However, if the wax is thick, yellow, persistent, or it causes problems such as blocked ears or hearing loss, then it may be worth getting checked out by a doctor. Here are some other factors that can contribute to ear wax accumulation:
– If you have an infection in your sinuses (commonly called sinusitis), the pressure from the infection may cause excess accumulation of ear wax.
– If you have allergies, your body may flush chemicals that lead to blockage of the ear canal and production of ear wax.
– If you are overweight or have a lot of fat in your neck and chest area (called generalized obesity), this can increase the amount of moisture in your airways and lead to excessive accumulation of earwax.
How to get ear wax removed at urgent care
If you are experiencing symptoms such as an inability to hear out of one or both ears, a constant ringing in your ears, or an unbearable pressure in your ears, it is important to seek medical attention. Ear wax is a common cause of these symptoms and can be removed at urgent care without any major surgery.
Ear wax is composed of dead skin cells and other debris that have been collected over time. When the ear canal becomes blocked, this collection of material accumulates and builds up until it causes pain and hearing problems. Ear wax removal can be done through a variety of methods, including using a suction device, using warm water and soap, or using a syringe.
If you experience any symptoms following ear wax removal, be sure to discuss them with your doctor. Ear wax removal should not be done on its own if you are concerned about any potential long-term consequences.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing ear wax build-up and it’s causing you pain or discomfort, then you should consider visiting an urgent care clinic. Urgent care clinics are staffed with specialized doctors and nurses who can help remove your ear wax in a safe and comfortable setting. Most clinics provide a variety of tools and techniques to achieve this goal, so be sure to ask about what is available before making the appointment.