At Eltham Pharmacy, we know that many people feel unsure about what actually happens during ear irrigation. If you are visiting an earwax removal clinic in London for the first time, it is completely natural to want reassurance about the procedure, the level of comfort and what preparation is required. Ear irrigation is a safe, effective and widely used method for clearing blocked ears, and understanding the process can help you feel more confident and prepared for your appointment.

Why Ear Irrigation Is Used

Ear irrigation is a method used to remove softened earwax by using a controlled flow of warm water. It is gentle, straightforward and suitable for most people who experience earwax build-up that has not responded fully to softening drops alone. When performed by trained pharmacy professionals, the process is quick and can provide immediate relief from muffled hearing, pressure, discomfort and a feeling of fullness.

How To Prepare Before Your Appointment

Preparing properly helps ensure the procedure works smoothly. Softening the wax beforehand makes it easier to remove and improves overall comfort. We usually recommend using olive oil drops for several days before your appointment. This helps the wax break down so that irrigation can be carried out safely and effectively.

A few simple steps before your visit include:

• Use olive oil drops once or twice a day for three to five days
• Avoid inserting anything into your ears, including cotton buds
• Let your clinician know if you have had ear surgery, perforated eardrums in the past or current pain
• Make a note of any symptoms such as hearing loss, ringing or dizziness

Good preparation is one of the most important parts of achieving a successful outcome.

What Happens During Ear Irrigation

When you arrive for your appointment, your clinician will begin with a quick consultation to understand your symptoms and medical background. This ensures ear irrigation is the most suitable option for you. The process itself usually takes only a few minutes, and most people find it far more comfortable than expected.

Step By Step Guide To The Procedure

1. Visual Examination
The clinician uses an otoscope to check the ear canal and confirm the presence of wax. This assessment guides the safest and most appropriate removal method.

2. Positioning
You will be seated comfortably with a collection basin held under your ear to catch the water and wax.

3. Warm Water Irrigation
A specialised irrigation device gently flushes warm water into the ear canal. The water is controlled, steady and directed safely to remove the softened wax.

4. Wax Release
As the water circulates, the wax begins to loosen and flow out into the basin. You may feel light pressure or movement but it should not be painful.

5. Rechecking The Ear
Once the wax is removed, the clinician examines the ear canal again to ensure it is clear and to check for any signs of irritation.

6. Advice And Aftercare
Your clinician provides guidance tailored to your needs, including how to keep your ears healthy and when to return if symptoms reappear.

The entire process is designed to be straightforward, safe and effective.

Comfort And Safety During The Procedure

Most patients describe the sensation of irrigation as unusual but not uncomfortable. The warm water prevents dizziness and helps the wax soften further during the procedure. If at any point you feel discomfort, you can let the clinician know and the water flow can be adjusted immediately.

Ear irrigation should always be performed by trained professionals. Home syringing is not recommended due to the risk of infection, injury or pushing wax deeper into the ear canal. At Eltham Pharmacy, we ensure every patient receives a careful assessment so the procedure is both safe and appropriate for their specific situation.

Aftercare And What To Expect Afterwards

Once the wax is removed, our customers across Eltham and Blackheath should notice an immediate improvement in hearing clarity. Sounds may feel sharper or slightly louder than usual, which settles quickly. Your ear canal may feel a little sensitive, but this typically resolves within a few hours.

Aftercare advice often includes:

• Keep your ears dry for the remainder of the day
• Avoid inserting objects into the ears
• Use olive oil drops occasionally if you are prone to wax build up
• Contact the clinic if you notice prolonged discomfort or blocked hearing

Your clinician will also let you know if follow up appointments are recommended.

When To Seek Further Help

If you continue to experience symptoms such as pain, persistent hearing loss or repeated blockages, professional assessment is essential. Earwax can build up differently in each person, and some individuals benefit from regular maintenance to prevent future blockages. Contact us to find out more about ongoing earcare in Eltham.

Book Your Appointment

If you are ready to experience safe and effective treatment at an earwax removal clinic in London, you can book an appointment at our Eltham clinic. Our team at Eltham Pharmacy is here to help you restore clear and comfortable hearing with professional care tailored to your needs.

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