General Information

Wax is normal, and is only removed if causing a problem, ie impacted, and painful, or if the eardrum needs to be seen for a very good reason. No child should be forced to have wax removed.  Ear syringing is not advised in children.

Sometimes tympanometry is carried out to test the mobility of the eardrum, and if this is normal, - let the wax stay. If the canal is blocked, use olive oil, almond oil,  or 3% Peroxide, for a few days, and then check again. Some children who have a serious wax impaction problem may require a general anaesthetic for removal. The most important thing with children is to avoid an unpleasant confrontation, which will result in fear of all future treatment.