This article explains, in plain language, how earwax and hearing aids interact, when it might be time to have your ears checked, and how microsuction ear wax removal may help some people. It is general information only and does not replace individual advice from your GP, audiologist, or another health professional.
If you are in Adelaide or surrounding suburbs and are worried about blocked ears with hearing aids, MicroClear Ears offers microsuction ear wax removal at Somerton Park, Stepney, and Brooklyn Park.
Why we have earwax in the first place
Earwax (also called cerumen) is a natural substance made by glands in the ear canal. It is a mix of oils, dead skin cells, and other tiny particles that have been trapped and moved out of the ear over time.
Earwax helps to:
- Protect the ear canal from dust and debris.
- Moisturise the skin inside the ear, reducing irritation and dryness.
- Slow the growth of some bacteria and fungi due to its slightly acidic nature.
In most people, earwax slowly works its way out of the ear canal on its own. Everyday jaw movements such as talking and chewing help this process along. Usually, you do not need to do anything at all to “clean” the ear canal.
Problems arise when wax builds up faster than it can leave the ear, or when something in the ear canal changes the way wax moves. Hearing aids are one of the common reasons this can happen.
How hearing aids can change earwax and the ear canal
Wearing hearing aids can contribute to earwax build-up for several reasons:
- Physical blockage of the canal
The hearing aid or dome sits in the ear canal and can act as a barrier. This can slow or prevent wax from moving out naturally.
- Stimulation of wax glands
For some people, having something in the ear canal can stimulate the glands that produce wax, leading to increased production.
- Shape and fit of the device
Custom earmoulds, tight-fitting domes, or devices that sit deeply can change how air circulates and how wax is moved towards the entrance of the ear.
- Trapped moisture and skin changes
If moisture builds up around the device (for example, from sweat or humid weather), the skin lining the canal may become more prone to irritation. This can sometimes influence how wax behaves.
Not everyone who wears hearing aids will develop wax blockages, but hearing aid users are at higher risk of impacted earwax than people who do not wear devices in the ears.
Signs that earwax may be affecting your hearing aids
If you use hearing aids, it can be hard to know whether changes in your hearing are due to wax, to the device itself, or to your underlying hearing levels. Some signs that earwax may be part of the picture can include:
- Your ears feel blocked or full, with or without your devices in.
- Sounds seem muffled, even when your hearing aids are switched on and charged.
- You need to turn the volume up more than usual.
- You notice intermittent sound – your aids work well at times, then drop out or sound dull.
- Your own voice sounds boomy, echoey, or “in a barrel”.
- You have itching or mild discomfort in the ear canal.
- You see visible wax on the outside part of your hearing aids or domes more often than before.
These signs can also occur for other reasons, such as changes in your hearing, a problem with the device, or an ear infection. Because of this, it is important not to assume wax is the only cause. If you are unsure, it is sensible to discuss things with your audiologist, GP, or another health professional.
How earwax can affect your hearing aids and earmoulds
Earwax does not just sit in the ear canal. It can also collect on your hearing aids themselves, especially around the parts that sit closest to your ear drum.
Examples include:
- Blocked sound outlet or receiver
Wax can block the small opening where amplified sound leaves the device. This can reduce volume and clarity.
- Clogged wax filters
Many devices include tiny wax guards or filters. These are designed to catch wax before it reaches delicate components. When the filters fill up, sound quality drops.
- Build-up in earmould tubing
For behind-the-ear devices with custom earmoulds, wax can collect in the mould or tubing, again affecting sound.
- Damage over time
In some cases, long-term exposure to wax and moisture may contribute to wear and tear on the hearing aid components.
Cleaning and maintenance routines recommended by your audiologist are important. Even with good care, though, wax in the ear canal itself may still need to be professionally removed from time to time.
Why cotton buds and home tools can make things worse
Many people try to manage earwax at home with items such as:
- Cotton buds (cotton tips).
- Hair pins or clips.
- Ear candles.
- Unregulated “ear vacuums” or cameras purchased online.
These methods can push wax deeper into the canal, increase the risk of injury, or introduce infection. Ear candles, in particular, have not been shown to safely remove wax and are not recommended.
If you are unsure how to look after your ears with hearing aids, it is safer to seek professional advice rather than experiment with home tools.
What is microsuction ear wax removal?
Microsuction is a method of ear wax removal that uses gentle suction under direct vision. At MicroClear Ears, a nurse practitioner uses a specialised medical-grade suction device and a light source to see into the ear canal while removing wax.
Key features of microsuction include:
- The nurse practitioner can see what they are doing throughout the procedure.
- A fine suction tip is used to gently remove wax and debris.
- The procedure is water-free, which can be helpful for some people who have had problems with water irrigation in the past.
Many people report that microsuction is a quick and well-tolerated way to remove troublesome wax. As with any medical procedure, individual experiences vary, and it may not be suitable for everyone. Your nurse practitioner will discuss your situation and let you know if another form of care is more appropriate.
How microsuction may help hearing aid users
For some hearing aid users, removing excess or impacted earwax can:
- Help reduce the feeling of blocked or full ears.
- Improve how clearly sound from the hearing aid reaches the ear drum.
- Make it easier to clean and maintain the devices and ear pieces.
- Reduce the amount of wax that ends up on domes, earmoulds, or wax filters.
It is important to note that microsuction does not treat hearing loss itself. It only addresses wax and debris in the ear canal. However, when blocked ears are part of the problem, removing the blockage may help some people hear more comfortably through their existing hearing aids.
Because everyone’s ears and hearing are different, outcomes vary from person to person. Your nurse practitioner or other health professional can talk through what is realistic in your case.
What to expect if you book microsuction at MicroClear Ears
This is a general overview of what many people can expect at a microsuction appointment with a nurse practitioner at MicroClear Ears in Adelaide.
Before your appointment
- You can book online or by phone without a referral.
(Referral requirements and Medicare rebates may vary; information is available on the main website and can be discussed at your appointment.)
- You may be asked some questions about:
- Your hearing aids and how long you have worn them.
- Any recent ear infections, pain, or surgery.
- Other medical conditions or medications that might be relevant.
- In some situations, you may be advised to see your GP or another specialist first, especially if you have had:
- Recent ear surgery.
- Persistent ear pain or discharge.
- Sudden hearing loss.
During the appointment
- Your nurse practitioner will look into your ears using a light and may explain what they can see.
- If microsuction is suitable, a small suction tip is used to gently remove wax while the nurse practitioner watches through an operating loupe or similar visual aid.
- You may hear some noise from the suction device. Many people find this unusual but manageable.
- If at any stage the clinician is concerned, they may pause and discuss whether another form of care is needed.
After the appointment
- You may notice your hearing aids sound clearer if wax was contributing to muffling.
- Your nurse practitioner may suggest a maintenance schedule for future wax checks, which could be more frequent if you produce a lot of wax or wear hearing aids full time.
- If any concerns are identified that sit outside the scope of the clinic, you may be advised to follow up with your GP, audiologist, or an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.
How often should hearing aid users have wax checks?
There is no single rule that suits everyone, but hearing aid users may benefit from regular ear checks, particularly if they:
- Have had repeated wax blockages.
- Produce a lot of earwax.
- Use in-ear devices for many hours each day.
Some people find that every 6–12 months works well; others may need more or less frequent reviews. Your clinician can discuss a sensible timeframe for you based on what they see in your ears and how often you have had problems in the past.
The aim is to find a balance between:
- Preventing significant blockages that interfere with hearing aids, and
- Avoiding unnecessary procedures when your ears are comfortable and functioning well.
Looking after your hearing aids between appointments
Alongside professional wax removal when required, good hearing aid care can make a real difference. Your audiologist or hearing care provider is the best person to tailor advice for your devices, but common tips often include:
- Cleaning domes and earmoulds as recommended.
- Changing wax filters when they become discoloured or blocked.
- Storing devices in a dry, safe place when not in use.
- Having periodic hearing aid checks and servicing.
If you ever feel unsure about how to clean your devices safely, it is better to ask your provider than to guess. This is particularly important if you have limited dexterity, reduced vision, or complex medical conditions.
When to seek urgent medical care
Microsuction and routine wax checks are not suitable for every situation. You should seek urgent medical advice from a GP, urgent care service, or emergency department if you notice:
- Sudden hearing loss in one or both ears.
- Severe ear pain that is getting worse.
- Fluid, pus, or blood coming from the ear.
- Dizziness, severe imbalance, or vomiting with ear symptoms.
- A recent head injury with ear or hearing changes.
These concerns may require immediate medical assessment rather than routine wax removal.
Microsuction for hearing aid users in Adelaide
If you use hearing aids and feel your ears are blocked or uncomfortable, it may be appropriate to have your earwax checked and, if needed, removed. For many people, microsuction provides a gentle, water-free option to manage troublesome wax.
MicroClear Ears offers microsuction ear wax removal at:
- Somerton Park – Brighton Road.
- Stepney – Adelaide Health Co on Magill Road.
- Brooklyn Park – Health on Henley, Henley Beach Road.
You can find more information about locations, pricing, and Medicare rebates (where eligible) on the main MicroClear Ears website. If you would like to discuss whether microsuction may be appropriate for you, you can book an appointment online or contact the clinic to talk through your situation.
This article is general information only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you have questions about your ears, hearing aids, or overall hearing health, please speak with your GP, audiologist, or another qualified health professional.
Make an microsuction appointment with MicroClear Ears today
Book your appointment online with MicroClear Ears today. We offer micro-suction ear wax removal ear clinics at three locations across Adelaide; Stepney, Brooklyn Park, and Somerton Park. Our service is Medicare rebatable, and requires no referrals. For more information on fees, please see our fees & pricing page.
If you have any questions, please see our Frequently Asked Questions section or Get in touch today.
Category: Ear health
