DS blocked ears - Hoppi ear?

[WelshCerys]

DS, just 16, has been complaining about a sore ear for a long time - in/out of the GP. Nurse now says both ears very blocked and recommends oil treatment. If no change in 2 weeks, syringing at surgery.

So far, some results but I can't see this situation getting better while DS continues to have headphones in his ears, almost continuously at home. In ear ones - will not consider over the ear.

DS can't believe there may be a link - incredibly obstinate. Trying to deal with that.

Read about hoppi ear therapies - apparently OK for children/teenagers. But DS will have none of it. Does anyone have experience of this, particularly for kids?

Surely there is a connection between almost continuously blocked ears and ear phones? Not aware of other potential causes eg recurrent colds/infections.

So - stroppy but sore teenager and worried Mum. Help!

I don't think there is a link between earphones and blocked ears to be honest. It just depends how much wax your ears produce, how narrow the internal ear tube bits are. Also if you've had a clod recently teh wax gets a bit thicker.

I'm very prone to needing my ears syringed and never use earphones or headphones. The nurse just says that I have little ears and a lot of wax.

I tried hopi ear candles once and it didn't work. Though to be honest when mine are blocked the nurse struggles shifting it with the high pressure water jet, takes a few goes so no way is a little candle going to work. I got candles over the internet and did it myself to save money. Its cheap enough to try yourself if your're desperate.

I used to love having my ears candled but a friend shared some you tube clips which prove it is utter nonsense I'm afraid. I think the oil treatment is worth a try.

I never heard of a link between earphones and blocked ears. In fact of all the people I know who suffer from blocked ears, not one would use ear phones.

Get him down to have them syringed and don't worry about hassling him to give up the earphones.

Thanks all - this is helpful stuff. Oil seems to be helping a bit and will take back to surgery for a check up very soon.