Understanding Microsuction Noise and Your Comfort
Microsuction is a safe and effective procedure used to maintain healthy ears by removing excess earwax and debris from the ear canal. It's natural to wonder about certain aspects of the procedure, and one common question is, "Is microsuction loud?"
What to Expect
The noise levels experienced during microsuction can indeed vary. Scientific studies have shown that during the procedure, the noise generated within the ear canal can reach relatively high levels, sometimes exceeding 120 decibels (dB) for a brief duration, particularly in some cases. While this might raise concerns, it's essential to understand that these noise spikes are usually short-lived and don't typically lead to a noticeable reduction in your hearing capabilities.
Despite the noise levels observed during microsuction, extensive research has not established a direct link between the procedure's noise and permanent hearing loss. For a small number of people they may experience a short temporary hearing loss, (temporary threshold shift)similar to when you have been to a very loud music concert. In numerous cases, patients have undergone microsuction without experiencing any hearing-related issues afterward.
However, individual sensitivity to noise can vary significantly. If you're someone who finds common environmental noises, such as vacuum cleaners, unusually uncomfortable or even painful, please discuss this with the Nurses. Understanding the individual differences in noise tolerance, we are committed to ensuring your comfort during the procedure. For those who might find the noise unsettling, we offer options to mitigate any discomfort. By employing specialized tools and techniques, we can reduce the noise to a level that feels more manageable for you. Additionally, alternative manual instruments are available, which generate minimal noise .
Considerations for Ear Drops
In another study titled “Suction-generated noise levels during aural toilet,” researchers examined the noise levels generated by different suction tubes and substances in an artificial model head. This study revealed that suctioning water resulted in very high noise levels, exceeding 130 dB. As a precautionary measure, we generally discourage the use of aggressive ear drops containing sodium bicarbonate or urea hydrogen peroxide. These drops can cause earwax to become excessively watery, significantly increasing noise levels during microsuction. Use of sodium bicarbonate ear drops can lower the ear canal's protective acidity, potentially leading to opportunistic ear infections. Similarly, the drops with hydrogen peroxide can cause ear pain and inflammation.
At Ear Matters Exeter we recommend the use of Olive oil drops or spray. If you know you have ear eczema or very dry itchy ears we suggest a natural vegetable oil or almond oil ( as long as not nut allergic )