The RNID, a hearing loss charity, has raised concerns over the lack of free NHS earwax removal services available to almost 10 million people in England. The charity argued that some individuals who cannot afford private treatment have resorted to dangerous self-removal methods. While the government stated that GPs can still refer patients to a specialist service if the earwax issue is linked to hearing loss, the RNID has criticized the lack of provision in some areas, which might lead to more patients trying to remove the wax themselves.
Each year, around 2.3 million people in the UK require earwax treatment, according to the NHS. This common problem is often more prevalent among older people, hearing-aid users, and individuals with learning disabilities. The RNID believes that the cost of private treatment, which can be up to £100 per procedure, will negatively impact people who need regular treatment.
The charity sent Freedom of Information requests to all 42 English integrated health boards, and 7 areas, including Suffolk and NE Essex, NW London, Birmingham & Solihull, Cornwall & Scilly Isles, SW London, Dorset, and Mid & South Essex, were found to have no NHS earwax services. Crystal Rolfe, director of health at RNID, said the lack of provision meant that people could be risking their hearing by ‘using hairpins, cotton buds, and other objects in their ears to remove the wax’.
The RNID’s warning is of great concern, particularly as wax build-up in the ear canal can lead to tinnitus, hearing loss, and earache, among other symptoms. It can also interfere with hearing aids, causing a distracting whistling sound. While most people have no difficulty removing earwax naturally, some individuals, particularly those with pre-existing conditions, might require medical intervention, which should be available to all who need it and not just those who can afford it
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