Ear Wax

Question 1

What are the risk factors for cerumen impaction?

Answer 1

old age
    learning disability
    use of cotton swabs in ears
    hearing aids
    earplugs

Question 2

What are the clinical features of cerumen impaction?

Answer 2

ear discomfort
    hearing loss
    tinnitus
    dizziness
    chronic cough

Question 3

How is cerumen impaction diagnosed?

Answer 3

Direct visual otoscopy

Question 4

Outline the management of cerumen impaction.

Answer 4

• Ear irrigation (electronic/microsuction)
• Pre-treatment wax softeners
• Second attempt if first unsuccessful
• If second attempt unsuccessful refer to ENT service for the removal of the wax

Question 5

What is the “golden” advice to give to patients?

Answer 5

NEVER put cotton swabs or other objects into the ear canal.