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This guideline covers the management of troublesome ear wax in adults and children.
There is a 'Ear Wax Removal Commissioning Policy' that accompanies this CRG.
Please note pre-referral criteria are applicable in this CRG (Clinical Referral Guideline).
Ear wax should be removed in the community in most circumstances.
East Cornwall patients as they will need to meet the Kernow policy for the removal of ear wax
Advise the use of ear drops to soften wax and aid removal*:
* unless you suspect a perforation or there is active dermatitis or infection
** studies have shown these to be safe and effective; around half of patients who use it are successfully treated
Note: Prior to attending Audiology for a hearing test the ears must be completely clear of wax. If long delay before audiology appointment, consider asking the patient to return to check ears clear of wax before appointment.
Ear wax should be removed in the community in most circumstances.
The routine commissioning of ear wax removal in secondary care is only accepted when:
1) The patient is receiving ongoing treatment, such as de-waxing a mastoid cavity
OR
2) The patient is suffering from significant symptoms due to ear wax build up including hearing loss or pain
AND
5-7 days of ear wax softeners have been trialled (unless there is a current perforation of the tympanic membrane)
AND ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING APPLY
Electronic irrigation has been attempted twice* by a suitably trained practitioner in the community, unless contraindicated**
OR
Microsuction has been attempted once by a suitably trained practitioner in the community***
OR
The patient has a history of ear surgery (e.g., stapedotomy or mastoid surgery) or documented history from an ENT specialist which advises that treatment for ear wax removal outside of secondary care should be avoided due to a current / ongoing issue.
* Once in Children under the age of 8
** Contraindications to irrigation include:
The following conditions ARE NOT contraindications to ear irrigation in primary care:
*** Inclusive of a documented recent attempt made by a private provider
Referrals for microsuction should detail the prior community management. Referrals submitted without this information will be returned.
e-Referral Service Selection
e-Referral Service Selection
MyHealth patient information - ear wax build up
This guideline has been signed off of NHS Devon.
Publication date: November 2015
Updated: February 2023