At Eltham Pharmacy, we often meet patients who feel nervous or unsure about ear irrigation because they are not sure what to expect. Many people have lived with blocked ears for weeks or even months before deciding to seek help. Hearing loss, discomfort, and a constant feeling of fullness can become frustrating, but concerns about the procedure sometimes hold patients back. To ease those worries, we want to take you behind the scenes of what really happens during an ear irrigation appointment in London, from the first consultation to the aftercare advice you receive before leaving.

Step One: The Initial Consultation

When you arrive at our earwax removal clinic in Eltham, you will first meet with a trained member of our pharmacy team. We start by asking questions about your ear health and general medical history. This is important because ear irrigation is not suitable for everyone. For example, patients who have had ear surgery, a perforated eardrum, or frequent ear infections may need an alternative method such as microsuction.

During the consultation, you can explain your symptoms and how long you have been experiencing them. Common complaints include muffled hearing, a blocked sensation, ringing in the ears, or even dizziness. We then perform an examination using an otoscope, which allows us to look into your ear canal to see whether wax is present and how severe the build-up is. This step ensures that earwax is indeed the cause of your discomfort and that irrigation is the right treatment for you.

Step Two: Preparing for the Procedure

If we confirm that ear irrigation is suitable, we will talk you through how the procedure works. Many patients have already used ear drops at home to soften the wax before their appointment. This is encouraged, as it makes the treatment more effective and comfortable. If you have not done this, we may recommend a short course of drops before returning for irrigation.

We also explain what you might feel during the procedure. Some people worry that irrigation will be painful, but in reality it should feel more like a gentle flushing of warm water. Knowing this in advance often helps patients feel more at ease.

Step Three: The Irrigation Process

When it is time for the procedure, you will sit comfortably in a chair while the clinician prepares the equipment. Ear irrigation uses a specially designed device that gently introduces a controlled flow of warm water into the ear canal. The water helps dislodge and flush out the softened wax, clearing the blockage without damaging the delicate structures of the ear.

The process usually takes just a few minutes per ear. You may hear the sound of the water and feel a gentle sensation of pressure, but it should not be uncomfortable. Patients are often surprised by how quick and straightforward it is.

As the wax is flushed out, you may notice an immediate improvement in your hearing. Some people describe it as a sudden clarity, almost like switching on a light in a dark room. For others, the improvement is more gradual as the ear adjusts to being unblocked.

Step Four: Aftercare and Advice

Once the irrigation is complete, we re-examine your ears with the otoscope to ensure that the wax has been fully removed and that your ear canal looks healthy. If any wax remains, further irrigation may be carried out, but in most cases, the blockage is cleared in a single session.

After the procedure, we provide advice on how to care for your ears. This includes tips such as avoiding cotton buds, which can push wax deeper into the ear, and using softening drops if you are prone to build-up. We may also suggest a regular check-up if you are someone who experiences recurrent problems.

It is normal for your ears to feel slightly sensitive after irrigation, but this usually settles quickly. In rare cases, you may notice mild dizziness or discomfort for a short time. If you ever experience prolonged pain or discharge, you should contact us or your GP for advice.

Step Five: Ongoing Support

Earwax build-up is something that can recur, particularly in people who naturally produce more wax or who use hearing aids. At Eltham Pharmacy, our role goes beyond just clearing a blockage once. We are here to provide ongoing support, whether that means recommending preventive products, scheduling routine appointments, or offering advice on ear health.

Our earwax removal clinic in Eltham is designed to make ear care simple, safe, and accessible. By offering ear irrigation in London at a local level, we provide patients with quick and effective treatment without the long waiting times often associated with NHS services.

Don’t Put Up With Discomfort

Ear irrigation is a safe and effective way to deal with blocked ears caused by wax build-up. At Eltham Pharmacy, we take care to ensure the process is comfortable, professional, and tailored to each patient’s needs. From your first consultation to your aftercare advice, every step is designed to reassure you and restore your hearing safely.

If you are struggling with blocked ears, do not put up with the discomfort. Contact our earwax removal clinic in Eltham today to book an appointment.

With ear irrigation in London provided by our experienced team, you can look forward to clear hearing and greater comfort once again.

This blog was written on behalf of Eltham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.