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Ear irrigation

Earwax protects the ear canal, but excessive accumulation can cause hearing loss and discomfort. Home cleaning is risky. Our experienced nurses safely and effectively remove earwax plugs, restoring your hearing and comfort.

Text reviewed by specialist:

dr Risto Vaikjärv

Ear, nose, and throat specialist, Somnologist

Published

Text updated

When to see a specialist

  • Hearing loss due to earwax plug 
  • Discomfort or pressure in the ear caused by earwax

Common symptoms

  • Dizziness

    In some cases, a large earwax plug can cause dizziness.

  • Ear pain

    If earwax is causing discomfort or pain.

  • Earache

    Pain, pressure, or discomfort in the ear. In children, the symptom may present as frequent touching or rubbing of the ear.

  • Hearing loss or impairment

    Changes in hearing, such as decreased hearing, muffled sounds, or a feeling of blocked ears.

How to prepare for your appointment

  • Bring your ID card or other identification document.
  • A few days before coming for ear irrigation, please be sure to instill wax-dissolving oils (e.g., olive oil, special ear drops) sold in pharmacies into your ear. These will soften the wax, making it easier to rinse out. 
  • Think through your main questions and concerns regarding your ears.

What to expect during your appointment

Ear examination

The nurse will examine your ear canals with an otoscope to assess the size and condition of the earwax plug.

Ear irrigation

During the procedure, the wax accumulated in the ear canal is rinsed out with warm water. This is a quick and mostly painless procedure that takes 15–20 minutes.

Follow-up

After irrigation, the ear canals are checked again to ensure their cleanliness. 

Counseling

We will give you recommendations for further ear hygiene and prevention of earwax plugs.

Specialists providing this service

  • Aleksandra Levitskaja

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

  • Aleksandra Skripka

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre

  • Alina Maspanova

    Nurse

    Kvartal Clinic – Specialist Medical Care and Occupational Health

  • Alisa Aleksejeva

    Nurse

    Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

  • Anastasia Grudkina

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

    Book appointment
  • dr Andreas Abel

    General practitioner

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Rävala Clinic – Specialist Medical Care and Occupational Health, Digikliinik

    Book appointment

Payment & Appointment Info

Prices

Tallinn

Special care
Service Price
Ear canal irrigation 34 €

Everywhere else in Estonia

Special care
Service Price
Ear canal irrigation 34 €
Payment methods

With a doctor’s referral, Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Outpatient Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

The service at Tartu Kvartal clinic is funded by the Health Insurance Fund based on a referral. To book an appointment funded by the Health Insurance Fund, please call +372 605 1500 or write to klienditugi@meliva.ee.

Referral

You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.

Clinics offering this service

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is ear irrigation painful?

Mostly, the procedure is painless. Some patients may feel slight discomfort or pressure.

How long does the procedure take?

Ear irrigation is a quick procedure, usually taking 15–20 minutes.

Why should I put oil in my ear before the procedure?

Oil helps soften the wax, making its removal easier and safer.

How often can ear irrigation be done?

Ear irrigation is done as needed. Regular irrigation without indication is not recommended. If earwax plugs tend to recur, we recommend consulting a doctor.

Is ear irrigation suitable for everyone?

No, ear irrigation is not suitable if you have an ear infection, perforated eardrum, or recent ear trauma. In such cases, a doctor’s consultation is necessary. 

What to do if hearing does not improve after irrigation? 

If hearing does not improve or discomfort occurs, we recommend consulting a doctor for further examination.