A private appointment to check your ears and gently flush out built-up wax that is leaving you blocked or muffled
Ear wax is normal, but sometimes it builds up and blocks the ear canal. That can leave you feeling muffled, blocked or uncomfortable, and it can make hearing aids harder to use. Our ear syringing service at Vale of Neath Pharmacy is a private, paid-for appointment for anyones who thinks wax may be the problem.
What happens at the appointment
The pharmacist will ask a few questions about your ears and your general health. They will then look inside each ear with an otoscope, a small instrument with a light, to check for excess wax and make sure nothing else is going on.
If wax is the cause, the pharmacist will syringe one or both ears, whichever is needed. Gentle warm water is used to flush the wax out. If syringing is not suitable for you, they will explain why and talk through what to do next.
Softening the wax beforehand
Wax comes away far more easily when it has been softened first. In the days before your appointment, try putting a few drops of olive oil or almond oil, or a wax-softening product from the pharmacy, into the affected ear.
- Use the drops two or three times a day
- Start three to five days before your visit
- Lie on your side for a few minutes afterwards
If you are unsure which drops to use, ask our team.
How to arrange it
Appointments can be booked online, or speak to a member of staff in the pharmacy.