American Family Care: Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinic

American Family Care

Learn All About Ear Cleaning at Your Nearest Urgent Care

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Are your ears causing you discomfort or affecting your hearing? At American Family Care, we understand that ear health is crucial for your overall well-being. That’s why we offer convenient and professional ear cleaning services on a walk-in basis. Whether you’re experiencing itching, muffled sounds, or simply want to maintain healthy ears, we’ve got you covered.

No need to endure the discomfort or uncertainty of ear issues. With American Family Care, you can access medical professional ear cleaning without the hassle of scheduling an appointment.

WHAT IS EARWAX AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT

Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a wax-like substance produced in the ear canal of humans and other mammals. It serves several essential functions, including cleaning and lubrication of the ears. It also helps to protect the lining of the ear canal by preventing dirt and water from entering and irritating the delicate skin inside the ear. 

Earwax also contains antibacterial properties that help to fight off infection. For these reasons, it is important to maintain normal levels of earwax in the ears. If too much earwax accumulates, it can cause problems such as hearing loss or a feeling of fullness in the ears. In this case, it may be necessary to have your ears professionally cleaned by a doctor.

WHEN TO GO FOR PROFESSIONAL EAR-CLEANING

The ears are self-cleaning, although there are some individuals who are at risk of issues if their ears are not cleaned, meaning they may need to get their ears cleaned by a professional. You should not get your ears cleaned if it is not necessary.

When you visit the center to have your ears cleaned, the provider will use special tools and techniques to remove any wax or debris that has built up in the ear canal. Not only will this help with hearing, but it can also reduce any itching and discomfort. 

Wax buildup can affect your hearing and cause other issues if it gets too thick and starts blocking sound from reaching the ear drum.

Signs That You Need Ear Cleaning

There are several signs that indicate that your ears need to be cleaned. If you experience any of these sensations, it is important to take action. 

  • Itching: One of the most common signs that your ears need cleaning is an itching sensation in or around the ear. If you feel persistent itching, this can signify wax buildup within the ear canal. 
  • Muffled sounds: This can be caused by a blockage in the ear, which could be due to wax buildup. 
  • Blocked Ears: If you have a sensation of having something stuck inside your ear canal and it keeps coming back no matter how much you try to remove it, that could indicate that wax has built up.
  • Pain: Another indication of needing your ears cleaned is experiencing pain in or around the ear. This could signal an infection or blockage due to excessive wax accumulation.
  • Discharge: If you notice discharge from your ear canal or ringing noises when there isn’t any sound present, this could also indicate needing to clean out the ears.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DON’T GET YOUR EARS CLEANED

Getting your ears cleaned regularly is important to prevent a buildup of wax and debris that can lead to hearing problems, irritation, and even infection. Cleaning the ears helps remove built-up wax, which can block sound waves from entering the ear canal and stop them from reaching the eardrum. 

Wax buildup can also cause tinnitus, itchiness, or temporary hearing loss. Regularly cleaning your ears can also help reduce the risk of painful ear infections by removing any bacteria or fungi lurking. By periodically removing this wax buildup, you are helping to keep your ear canal shiny clean and healthy.

HEAD TO AFC FOR EAR WAX REMOVAL

At some of our AFC centers, we offer ear wax removal services for people of all ages. Our trained professionals are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to ensure that your ears are cleaned properly and safely.

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AFC CORPORATE OFFICE

3700 Cahaba Beach Road Birmingham, AL 35242

Our Mission and Values:

Our mission is to provide the best healthcare possible in a kind and caring environment, in an economical manner, while respecting the rights of all of our patients, at times and locations convenient to the patient.

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