Following a careful evaluation of your ear canal and case history a recommendation for the removal of cerumen (ear wax) may be made by one of our trained professionals in cerumen management.
The presence of cerumen (ear wax) may:
- Cause a temporary hearing loss.
- Prevent adequate access to the ear canal for audiological care and may make it difficult to realize the full benefit from hearing instruments.
- Increase the risk of infection in the ear.
Every precaution possible will be undertaken to avoid discomfort or adverse results during the removal procedure. Removal of the cerumen may entail using drops to soften the cerumen and extraction by instrument, suctioning or rinsing with water.
Risks to cerumen removal include, but are not limited to:
- Injury to the ear canal that can result in some bleeding.
- Perforation of the eardrum (causing a hole or rupture of the eardrum
- Worsening/aggravation of chronic problems related to presence of ‘fluid’ in the middle ear.
- Possible damage to the small bones of the middle ear.
- Tinnitus
- Dizziness
- Failure to remove the blockage.
Certain risk factors, such as being on blood thinners, may make it more likely for you to incur complications such as bleeding and irritation during the procedure of removing wax. These complications may occur even if you have no risk factors but these complications are not life threatening.
By signing this form of consent, you are agreeing that you have been informed of the risks of cerumen management and would like to continue with the procedure. If you decide you do not want to have your wax removed, at any time, you may stop the procedure.