Top Causes of Ear Blockage
Why ear blockage matters
A blocked ear muffles speech, distorts music, and can upset balance. Many Londoners first notice trouble in busy cafés when background noise overwhelms conversation.
NHS surveys show earwax blockage is the leading primary care ear complaint. Left untreated it risks infection and may delay hearing aid fitting.
Top causes explained
Earwax build up
Cerumen traps dust and slows bacterial growth. Yet glands sometimes produce too much, especially in narrow canals common in children and elderly adults.
Water exposure
Regular swimmers from Putney pools report damp canals that swell lining cells, reducing space for sound waves.
Ear bud overuse
Constant headphones push wax deeper and warm the canal. This accelerates solidification, a detail highlighted by the British Society of Audiology.
Cotton buds
The tip glides surface wax outward when used correctly, yet most users sweep inward, packing debris against the eardrum.
Colds and sinus congestion
Upper respiratory infections common on the District line cause Eustachian tube swelling. Pressure behind the drum then drops, giving a “plugged” feeling even after the cold clears.
Flying and altitude changes
Frequent flyers from Heathrow note sudden cabin descent discomfort. Pressure imbalance blocks the middle ear until swallowing or yawning opens the tube.
Skin conditions
Eczema or psoriasis can shed flakes into the canal. Fulham GPs often refer these cases when itch and blockage coexist.
Foreign objects
Children exploring place beads, while gardeners sometimes lodge soil. Professional removal is vital to avoid perforation.
Warning signs to watch
Local patients describe dull hearing, ringing, or a sense of fullness. Some feel mild pain or notice odour. Sudden sharp pain or fluid discharge suggests infection that needs prompt medical review.
Safe removal at Fulham Palace Pharmacy
Microsuction uses gentle vacuum under direct vision to lift wax without water. The service operates in a private room led by trained pharmacists registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council.
The examination costs £10. You only pay the remaining £85 when wax is removed. Transparent fees mean no surprise bills.
Follow up consultation reassures healing and checks both ears remain clear. Patients appreciate the extra time to discuss long term care.
Preparing for your appointment
Soft wax lifts faster. Apply medical grade olive oil drops morning and night for three to five days before visiting. Tilt your head, add two drops, then stay still for five minutes to let oil soak.
If you have perforated eardrum, seek advice first. Our team will suggest alternative pre treatment.
What to expect on the day
Arrive a few minutes early and complete a short health form. The pharmacist inspects each canal with a video otoscope, explaining the view on screen.
If blockage appears, microsuction begins. A slim sterile tube connects to a low pressure pump. You may hear a gentle hum and feel slight tugging. Most treatments finish in under fifteen minutes.
Many patients remark that hearing clears immediately, likening the change to removing ear plugs after a concert.
Aftercare and follow up
Keep canals dry for twenty four hours. Avoid inserting cotton buds. Use ear protection when swimming for one week. Return for review within four weeks if advised.
Our pharmacist will record the procedure in your patient medication record, supporting continuity with your GP.
Evidence for microsuction
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance recommends microsuction over ear syringing because it lowers infection risk and avoids fluid rushing against the drum.
Hospital ENT units use the same technique. By offering it locally we remove waiting list delays.
Why choose a pharmacy clinic
Community pharmacies fill a gap between self care and hospital referral. Appointments are available after work, prescriptions are on site, and advice connects seamlessly with other medicines you already collect.
Patients in Kensington note the convenience of one stop care.
Preventing future build up
Stay hydrated, limit headphone volume, and schedule annual ear checks if you produce heavy wax. Our pharmacists can recommend bespoke ear care kits and demonstrate safe oil use.
Early maintenance avoids urgent visits before holidays or business trips.
Getting here from West London
Fulham Palace Pharmacy sits on Fulham Palace Road near Putney Bridge station. Buses from Hammersmith, Kensington, and Chelsea stop outside. Battersea residents can cross the river via Wandsworth Bridge within ten minutes by car.
Step free entry helps wheelchair users and parents with prams. Saturday slots suit busy commuters.
Take action
Persistent ear blockage affects focus at work and enjoyment of social events. Book online now ✅ Visit the pharmacy for walk in advice or call our friendly team for guidance.
Clear hearing brightens daily life. Your ears deserve expert care close to home.
