Earwax Removal in the New River Valley

Earwax is a normal and important part of your ear’s natural defense system. It traps dust and debris, keeps the ear canal moisturized, and helps reduce the risk of infection. Most of the time, old wax works its way out on its own. But sometimes that process slows, leading to buildup, blockage, discomfort, or interference with hearing aids.

When this happens, professional care is the safest way to clear your ears and restore comfortable hearing. At New River Valley Hearing & Balance, our team provides gentle, effective earwax removal tailored to your needs. With locations in Radford and Floyd, VA, help is always close by for patients throughout the New River Valley.

Signs You May Have Earwax Buildup

A simple red line drawing of a human ear, with three short lines on the left indicating sound or listening. The background is white.
Muffled or reduced hearing in one or both ears
A simple red outline of a human ear with a cloud shape inside, suggesting the concept of sound, hearing, or possibly hearing protection or issues.
A sensation of fullness, pressure, or “stuffiness”
A simple red line drawing of a human ear with two curved lines next to it, indicating the concept of listening or hearing.
Ringing or buzzing sounds (tinnitus)
A simple red outline drawing of a human ear on a white background.
Mild itching or discomfort in the ear canal
A simple red line drawing of a human ear viewed from the side, with distinct curves outlining the outer ear and inner details.
Weak, distorted, or intermittent sound from hearing aids

In some cases, blockage may even contribute to dizziness or imbalance. If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to have your ears checked before trying any at-home methods.

Why At-Home Removal Can Be Risky

It may be tempting to reach for cotton swabs, hairpins, or ear candles, but these methods often make the problem worse. They can:

  • Push wax deeper toward the eardrum
  • Scratch or injure the delicate skin of the ear canal
  • Increase infection risk
  • Damage the eardrum

Over-the-counter drops can sometimes help, but they are not appropriate for everyone—especially if you have a history of ear surgery, ear tubes, pain, or drainage. A professional evaluation ensures you receive the safest and most effective care.

Professional Earwax Removal at New River Valley Hearing & Balance

We use safe, carefully selected techniques based on your ear anatomy, wax consistency, and comfort level. Methods may include:

Microsuction

A small, gentle suction device removes wax under magnification for precise and controlled cleaning—especially helpful for stubborn blockages or narrow canals.

Irrigation with Warm Water or Saline

Softened wax is rinsed away with a controlled stream of warm liquid. Temperature is monitored closely for comfort and to minimize dizziness.

Manual Removal

Specialized instruments allow your provider to carefully lift or scoop wax from the canal under direct visualization, without contacting the eardrum.

Safe Earwax Removal: Earigator

Earigator logo

If you have stubborn earwax that is affecting your hearing, we can safely and efficiently remove it with our Earigator, the world’s most advanced self-contained ear irrigation system. The Earigator nozzle flushes body temperature water into the ear canal, dislodging impacted earwax. This method is pain free, quick, and highly effective.

Ear cleaning appointments with the Earigator don’t take long, so you can get back to enjoying your day quickly and with relief from clogged ears. If you have built-up earwax that is causing hearing difficulties, contact us about our Earigator cerumen management system today.

Your comfort and safety guide every step. We explain what to expect before, during, and after your procedure, and answer any questions you may have.

For Hearing Aid Users

If you wear hearing aids, managing earwax is especially important. Wax can block small openings in your devices, leading to:

  • Weak or distorted sound
  • Whistling or feedback
  • Devices that cut out or shut down unexpectedly

Routine professional cleanings and regular device maintenance can:

  • Improve hearing aid performance
  • Reduce the need for repairs
  • Extend the life of your devices

We can also show you simple daily steps to keep wax from interfering with your technology.

Ready for Clearer, More Comfortable Ears?

Let the team at New River Valley Hearing & Balance provide safe, gentle ear care that supports both your ear health and your hearing.

Call 540-731-4327 or schedule your visit today.

Request Appointment