A build up of earwax is often something which gets missed in people who are living with dementia. This is partly due to the fact that sometimes they are unable to communicate what is bothering them and partly due to the symptoms being put down ‘part of their dementia'.

It is believed that 75% of residents in care homes have an excessive build up of earwax. This can cause them significant discomfort such as tinnitus and pain. It can also contribute to incidents of falling due to the dizziness and disorientation it can cause. The wax build up regularly causes or exacerbates hearing loss which can be detrimental for communication, this can lead to isolation and fear and difficult behaviours such as aggression can worsen in some dementia patients.

It is important that these symptoms are not just assumed to be down to ‘old age’ or a worsening of their dementia without ruling out a build up of earwax first.

Microsuction earwax removal is an accurate and safe way of removing earwax, providing the patient is able to sit still and can tolerate a loud Hoover like noise in their ear. However use of olive oil drops such as ‘Earol’ is an easy and distress free way of softening the wax to aid its natural migration from the ear canal. To read our blog about microsuction earwax removal, click here.