Experiences with ear wax

I am writing to support RNID’s ear wax campaign and share my personal experience of friends struggling to get ear wax removal.

It is estimated that around 2.3 million people a year in the UK require their ear wax to be removed by a professional.

Ear wax build up can cause painful and distressing symptoms – such as hearing loss, tinnitus and debilitating earache – yet RNID’s new report highlights the horrifying reality that far too many people are unable to access this essential service on the NHS.

RNID’s report shows that only 18 out of 40 integrated care boards, the commissioners of most

NHS services, are meeting public health guidelines by providing ear wax removal services for everyone in their area. Fifteen provide a limited service, or use restrictive criteria, and seven don’t provide any service at all.

This means thousands face avoidable hearing loss, tinnitus and earache because they can’t get ear wax removed on the NHS.

It is unacceptable that people are facing long delays and costly private appointments because local integrated care boards are not delivering. You can find out more about RNID’s ear wax campaign by visiting rnid.org.uk/earwax

RNID need your support. As someone who has witnessed first hand the difficulties of managing hearing loss and the mental drain of self-advocating to access healthcare, I am joining RNID in calling on the Department of Health and Social Care for an urgent review of ear wax removal services for people who are failing to get the care they need on the NHS. The problem is clear – people who need ear wax removal must be able to access this service on the NHS, regardless of where they live. Melanie Watts

Fareham

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