At Vivo Pharmacy in Bristol, we regularly see patients struggling with a blocked ear and unsure whether they should try home remedies or seek professional help. A blocked ear can happen for many reasons, including wax build-up, trapped water, changes in air pressure, or an underlying infection. While some cases resolve naturally or can be managed safely at home, others require expert assessment and treatment, such as microsuction.

To help you make an informed decision, we have created a self-check flowchart. Follow the steps below to understand what might be causing your blocked ear and decide whether to manage it yourself or book an appointment at our Bristol clinic.

Blocked Ear Self-Check Flowchart

Step 1: Do you have ear pain, swelling, or discharge?

Yes → This could indicate an ear infection or a more serious problem. Avoid inserting anything into your ear and book an appointment with our Bristol clinic for assessment.

No → Go to Step 2.

Step 2: Has your hearing suddenly reduced in one or both ears?

Yes → This may suggest a significant wax blockage, sudden fluid build-up, or an underlying infection. It is safest to seek professional help for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

No → Go to Step 3.

Step 3: Have you recently been swimming, showering, or diving?

Yes → You may have trapped water in your ear, often called “swimmer’s ear”.

1. Tilt your head to one side and gently pull on your earlobe to help drain water.

2. Use a clean towel to dry the outer ear only.

3. If discomfort or blockage continues for more than 24 hours, schedule a consultation at Vivo Pharmacy to check for infection.

No → Go to Step 4.

Step 4: Do you frequently use cotton buds or ear-cleaning tools?

Yes → You may have accidentally pushed the wax further into your ear canal, which can worsen a blocked ear.

1. Stop using cotton buds and avoid inserting any objects into your ears.

2. Go to Step 5 to learn about safer at-home options.

No → Go to Step 5.

Step 5: Is it likely caused by earwax build-up?
If you experience any of the following, wax may be the cause:

• –> Muffled hearing

• –> A feeling of fullness or pressure

• –> A gradual blockage without pain

If these symptoms match, you can try the following safe at-home steps:

1. Use olive oil or earwax-softening drops for 3 to 5 days.

2. Follow the instructions carefully and avoid overuse.

3. Do not attempt to flush your ears with water unless advised by a healthcare professional.

After 5 days, ask yourself:

Has the blockage cleared?

Yes → Great, continue to avoid cotton buds and monitor your ear health.

No → It is time to book a professional earwax removal service, such as microsuction, at Vivo Pharmacy.

Step 6: Are you experiencing dizziness, ringing in your ears, or balance issues?

Yes → These symptoms may indicate an ear infection, fluid build-up, or other underlying conditions. Do not try to treat this at home and seek professional assessment immediately.

No → Go to Step 7.

Step 7: Have you recently had a cold, sinus infection, or been flying?

Yes → Your blocked ear may be related to pressure changes or fluid build-up in the middle ear.

1. Try swallowing, yawning, or chewing gum to ease the pressure.

2. Use a saline spray if nasal congestion is contributing to the blockage.

3. If the blockage lasts more than a few days, visit Vivo Pharmacy for an assessment.

No → Go to Step 8.

Step 8: When to Seek Professional Help Straight Away
Book an appointment at Vivo Pharmacy’s Bristol clinic if you experience:

• –> Persistent blocked ears after using drops

• –> Ear pain or swelling

• –> Sudden hearing loss

• –> Fluid or pus coming from your ear

• –> Frequent wax build-up despite home care

• –> Dizziness or ringing in the ears

Professional care ensures the cause of your blockage is diagnosed correctly and treated safely, avoiding further damage or infection.

Why Microsuction Is the Safest Option

If your blocked ear is caused by wax build-up, microsuction is one of the safest and most effective removal techniques. At Vivo Pharmacy in Bristol, we offer this professional service to help you restore clear and comfortable hearing.

Microsuction uses a gentle suction device to remove wax under visual guidance, meaning the process is precise, quick, and safe. Unlike irrigation, it does not involve introducing water into the ear canal, which reduces the risk of infection.

Our trained team ensures the procedure is comfortable and suitable for most patients, including those with sensitive ears or eardrum concerns. After your appointment, we also provide personalised advice to help you manage ear health and reduce future blockages.

Tips to Prevent Future Blocked Ears

• –> Avoid inserting cotton buds or sharp objects into your ears

• –> Keep your ears dry after swimming or showering

• –> Use olive oil drops occasionally if you are prone to wax build-up

• –> Protect your ears during flights by swallowing or chewing gum

• –> Book regular check-ups if you experience frequent blockages

Taking these simple precautions can help reduce the risk of recurring problems and protect your long-term ear health.

Book Your Earwax Removal Appointment Today

If you are unsure whether you can manage your blocked ear at home or need professional treatment, Vivo Pharmacy in Bristol is here to help. Our team offers expert advice, safe at-home recommendations, and professional microsuction services for fast and effective relief.

Speak to our team or book your consultation today and let us assess your situation, recommend the best solution, and help you protect your hearing health.

This blog was written on behalf of Vivo Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.