This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about caring for your ears. Previously, we talked about how ear wax is a natural protection for your ears that usually doesn’t need to be removed. People who wear hearing aids, though, may need special care for ear wax.

Wearing hearing aids inside the ear increases the chance that ear wax can build up and become impacted in the ear canal. Dr. Peter Roland, chairman of otolaryngology at
UT Southwestern Medical Center, says built-up ear wax can cause feedback, reduced effectiveness or damage to hearing aids. Checking for built-up ear wax should be part of regular check-ups for patients with hearing aids, and these patients may even need to schedule regular ear cleanings once or twice a year with a medical professional. You shouldn’t try to remove ear wax yourself with a cotton swab or other tools.

Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/earnosethroat to learn more about
UT Southwestern’s clinical services in ears, nose and throat.