Ear wax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the glands of the outer ear canal.
Although many people regard it as “dirt”, cerumen is in fact one of the body’s protective mechanisms – it lubricates and cleans the ear and shields it from dust, bacteria and infection.
At RINO Clinic – Ferizaj, we offer ear cleaning to high medical standards, using modern, safe and 100% sterile methods for every patient.
🩺 What is ear wax?
Cerumen is produced by glands in the skin of the outer ear canal and consists of oils, epithelial cells and antibacterial substances.
The main functions of cerumen:
- It protects the ear from dust, germs and water,
- It prevents dryness and irritation of the skin,
- It has antibacterial and antifungal properties,
- It supports the natural self-cleaning of the ear canal.
In most cases the body removes excess cerumen on its own – which is why frequent cleaning is not necessary under normal conditions.
⚠️ When does ear wax become a problem?
In some cases cerumen builds up and hardens, forming a plug that blocks the ear canal.
This often happens after the use of cotton buds, which push the wax deeper inside.
The most common signs of a blockage:
- A feeling of a “blocked ear”,
- Reduced (temporary) hearing,
- Noise in the ear (tinnitus),
- Dizziness or unsteady balance,
- Pain or pressure in the ear,
- Itching or a reflex cough.
If left untreated, hard wax plugs can also lead to infections of the outer ear (otitis externa).
❌ What you should never do
Do not try to remove the wax yourself with cotton buds, clips or other objects – this risks damaging the eardrum or pushing the plug deeper.
Do not use:
- Cotton buds,
- Metal instruments or clips,
- Drops or oils without medical advice.
Only an ENT specialist can clean the ear safely, without damaging its sensitive structures.
👨⚕️ How professional cleaning is carried out at RINO Clinic
At RINO Clinic, ear cleaning is performed in a fully professional, sterile and individually tailored way for every patient.
We use two modern methods, depending on the condition of the cerumen and the type of ear canal:
🔹 1. Professional irrigation (sterile lavage)
This method is used for routine cases with a soft or moderately firm plug.
We use a modern irrigation device with sterile water warmed to body temperature, in order to avoid dizziness and irritation.
- The procedure is carried out under the direct supervision of the ENT specialist,
- Every device and tip is 100% sterile and dedicated to a single patient,
- The procedure takes only a few minutes and is painless.
This method provides complete and safe cleaning of the outer ear canal without damaging the eardrum.
🔹 2. Cleaning under the microscope (otomicroscopy)
When the plugs are hard, dry or located very deep, we use the otomicroscope – a professional ENT microscope that provides precise magnification and illumination for accurate removal.
The cleaning is performed with a specialised ENT suction device, removing the cerumen in a controlled manner and without direct contact with the eardrum.
Advantages of cleaning under the microscope:
- Full visual control throughout the entire procedure,
- Painless, with no damage to the structures of the ear,
- Suitable also for children or people with narrow ear canals,
- Sterile, modern instruments for every patient.
🔁 How often should the ears be cleaned?
The ears usually do not need frequent cleaning, but a periodic ENT check-up is recommended for:
- People who use hearing aids,
- People with increased cerumen production,
- People working in dusty or humid environments,
- Children who have had repeated ear infections.
In these cases, a check-up every 6–12 months is the best way to keep the ears healthy.
🌿 Tips for everyday ear care
- Do not insert any object into the ear canal;
- Clean only the outer part with a soft towel;
- Do not use drops without medical advice;
- If you feel a blockage, book an appointment with a specialist;
- Avoid getting your ears excessively wet while washing.
🏥 Professional and microscopic ear cleaning at RINO Clinic – Ferizaj
At RINO Clinic, every cleaning is carried out to high hygiene standards and with modern technology.
Our clinic offers:
- Controlled sterile irrigation for soft or moderately firm plugs,
- Cleaning with the otomicroscope and professional suction for hard plugs,
- Modern, sterile instruments for every patient,
- An ENT consultation to assess the condition of the eardrum and of your hearing,
- Maximum comfort and personalised care in every case.
Combining medical experience with advanced technology ensures immediate and safe results.