Ear syringing
Ear wax removal in Rutherford, clear and comfortable.
Ear checks and wax removal, with advice on softening wax beforehand and caring for your ears.
When wax gets in the way.
Ear wax is normal and protects your ears. Sometimes it builds up and causes blocked ears, muffled hearing or discomfort. Your GP can check your ears and, if suitable, remove the wax.
Rutherford Doctors offers ear checks and ear syringing (irrigation). Consultations are bulk billed for Medicare-eligible patients.
Blocked ears? Book an ear check.
How we can help.
Choose a topic to learn what is involved and when to see a GP.
Ear wax build-up
Common signs.
Blocked feeling, muffled hearing, ringing or discomfort.
Narrow canals, hearing aids, earplugs or cotton buds.
Your GP examines your ears.
Softening wax
Preparing for removal.
Use wax-softening drops or olive oil for a few days, as advised.
Lie with the ear up for a few minutes after drops.
Softening alone can clear wax.
Ear syringing
Gently flushing wax out with warm water.
Warm water is gently flushed into the ear canal.
Usually comfortable. Tell your GP if it hurts.
Your GP checks the ear is clear.
When it is not suitable
Some people should not have syringing.
A hole in the eardrum, past or present.
Previous ear surgery.
A current ear infection.
Caring for your ears
Everyday ear care.
Avoid putting anything into the ear canal.
Clean regularly as advised.
Ask about ear care if you swim often.
Something else on your mind? Our GPs can help.
Ear problems explained.
Common ear concerns and when to see a GP.
Wax
Ear wax
Wax is normal and often clears on its own.
Syringing may help.
Infection
Middle ear infection
Common in children.
Your GP will examine the ear.
Outer ear infection
Swimmer's ear
Common after swimming.
Drops may be needed.
Urgent
Sudden hearing loss
Needs prompt assessment.
Do not wait.
General information only. See a GP for ear pain, discharge or sudden hearing loss.
Ears blocked or sore?
Having your ears cleared.
What to expect.
Before
Soften the wax
Use softening drops for three to five days before your appointment, as advised.
Tell us
Your history
Tell your GP about any eardrum perforation, ear surgery or ear infections.
See a GP promptly if you have
- Sudden hearing loss
- Severe ear pain or discharge
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Fever with ear pain
Step by step
- 1Check
Your GP examines your ears.
- 2Decide
Your GP checks syringing is suitable.
- 3Clear
Warm water gently flushes out the wax.
- 4Re-check
Your GP checks the ear is clear.
Book your ear appointment.
After
Your ear may feel slightly odd for a short time.
Recurring wax
If wax builds up often, your GP can suggest ways to manage it.
What is going on?
Select your situation.
Book an ear appointment.
Our GPs.
Choose a GP or book the first available.
No preference? Book the first available GP.
Ear syringing questions.
Does ear syringing hurt?
It is usually comfortable. Tell your GP if it hurts.
Should I soften the wax first?
Usually yes, for three to five days. Your GP will advise.
Is it bulk billed?
Consultations are bulk billed for Medicare-eligible patients.
Can everyone have syringing?
No. It is not suitable with a perforated eardrum, previous ear surgery or a current infection.
Should I use cotton buds?
No. Avoid putting anything into the ear canal.
Further reading
Children's immunisations in NSW: a parent's guideThis page provides general information about ear syringing services at Rutherford Doctors. It is not a substitute for advice about your own health. Please book an appointment to discuss your situation. In an emergency, call 000.
