Blocked ears, Discharge & Ear Infections

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The ear canal is designed to produce ear wax and mucus as part of our immune system. These substances help trap dust, debris and bacteria, preventing infections and keeping the ear clean. However, when the body produces too much wax or mucus, it can lead to blockages or discharge.

Blocked ears can be uncomfortable and seriously affect hearing. Discharge from the ear (which can be watery or thick, clear, yellow or green) is sometimes accompanied by an unpleasant or embarrassing odour. Persistent or excessive discharge requires evaluation from an ENT specialist.

Many patients first seek advice from a pharmacist or GP, perhaps trying over-the-counter ear drops or home remedies. However, symptoms can persist, worsen or become embarrassing. As one of the UK’s leading ENT specialists, I can assess the cause and provide specialist treatment.

Diagnosis

To determine the underlying cause of blocked ears or discharge, there are various diagnostics which need to take place:

  • Medical History: Patients often report symptoms such as muffled hearing, ear pain or fluid leakage. Understanding the duration and type of symptoms can help pinpoint the cause.
  • Physical Examination: I use an otoscope, which is like a hand-held microscope to examine the ear canal and eardrum for signs of wax buildup, infection, or structural concerns. If there are concerns on this examination or an intervention is needed (such as removal of wax), I will then go onto use a microscope to further examine the ear and may use microsuction to clear the ear of wax or pus.
  • Hearing Test: I  will organise a pure-tone audiometry test to assess hearing function, this will be delayed if there is evidence of infection until after it has been treated
  • Further Investigations: If necessary, I may recommend a CT scan to evaluate deeper structural concerns or chronic conditions affecting the ear.
9 Harley Street

Treatment Options

Once we identify the cause, tailored treatment options can be explored. My approach typically includes:

  • Microsuction: A safe, effective method for removing excess wax or debris. Unlike traditional syringing, microsuction uses a gentle suction device to clear blockages without introducing water into the ear under direct vision using a microscope
  • Medication: If an infection is present, I may prescribe antibiotic ear drops and/or a course of antibiotics to reduce swelling and discomfort. Anti-inflammatory medication may also be needed.
  • Lifestyle: Managing allergies, avoiding ear cleaning, excessive use of ear plugs or in ear earphones and using protective measures in environments with high dust or moisture can help prevent future issues.
  • Follow-Up Hearing Test: After treatment, I will organise a post-treatment hearing test to ensure that hearing has returned to normal.

My goal is to provide patients with immediate relief to their blocked ears or ear discharge, while also working with them to understand the causes or triggers to keep their ear function intact. Click here to make an enquiry.