In the event of developing what appears to be impacted wax, on the side of the cochlear implant, you should try the following steps:
- Use olive oil or bicarbonate of soda drops to soften the wax (this can be purchased from a pharmacy) provided there is no history of perforations.
- For very young children, if drops do not help clear the wax, we can arrange an appointment with your Ear Nose and Throat Consultant in order to remove the wax. For those patients whom are local to The James Cook University Hospital, you may attend the ear nose and throat casualty department (south entrance outpatients) from 10am to 12 noon and 2pm to 4pm Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays).
- For older children and teenagers, see your GP for ear syringing or suction (syringing should only be undertaken by an experienced practitioner as there is a very small risk of perforation which should be discussed with you).
- If your GP does not offer this service they should refer you to your local ENT department.
- If there is a possibility of an ear infection, then please follow the management of ear infections protocol
If you have any questions or concerns please contact the team.