Is Ear Syringing safe?
The great majority of GP’s in Hawke’s Bay have stopped removing ear wax by water syringing but surprisingly, it’s still being used in Hawke’s Bay. We see a lot of clients who have had bad experiences with ear syringing or where it just hasn’t worked and we’re not at all surprised at the results of a large UK study on the effectiveness of ear syringing set out below:
- Failure of ear wax removal occurred in 29% of cases
- Otitis media and Otitis externa (middle and external ear infections respectively) occurred in 17% of cases
- Ear drum perforation occurred in 15% of cases
- Trauma to the external ear canal occurred in 11% of cases
So as you’ll see, in comparison with microsuction, it’s a lot less effective and a lot less safe. In contrast, microsuction:
- May be used even in the presence of ear drum perforation
- It is the only technique safe to use for wax/debris removal in the presence of an external or middle ear infection
- Complication rates are vastly reduced in comparison with
Seems pretty convincing, don’t you agree?
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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77.2% Yes
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21.2% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
CAROLS ON THE GREEN
Sunday 1 December, 4-6.30pm, on H N Village Green. Koha sausage sizzle, Santa, Bay Cities's Symphonic Band, Dianne Abraham, Men in Black, Hukarere Girls' College, carol singing. Bring your chairs and a picnic basket and join the festivities. If inclement weather, we'll move into the church.