Earwax plays a fundamental role in protecting the ear from infection and the build-up of debris. This protection is important because the ear sits so close to the brain. In the long run, chronic bacterial infections of the middle or outer ear can lead to significant complications. However, earwax can also build up excessively and cause an earwax blockage. As a result, you may notice discomfort, tinnitus or reduced hearing.
Impacted earwax affects almost every population group, although it tends to affect older people more than younger people. This is mainly because the ear canal narrows as you get older. As a result, earwax cannot migrate out of the ear canal as efficiently. In fact, 2.3 million people in the UK need earwax removal every year.
As specialists in ear wax removal in Birmingham, we understand how earwax can affect your daily life. The good news is that our clinical audiologists have over 30 years of microsuction experience. So, they can provide safe, effective solutions for any type of cerumen impaction.
What Is an Earwax Blockage?
Cerumen, or earwax, is a natural secretion of the ear canal. Modified sweat glands (apocrine glands) in the outer third of the ear canal produce it. Its purpose is to carry debris, water and microbes out of the ear canal. To do this, it has a sticky texture that traps dirt. It also has a water-repellent (hydrophobic) surface, which stops water building up in the ear canal. However, when too much earwax builds up, it can form an earwax blockage, also called cerumen impaction.
What Causes an Earwax Blockage?
Excessive build-up can cause problems for many reasons, including:
- Cotton buds, which push earwax further into the ear canal
- Narrow ear canals, because a narrower channel leaves less room for earwax to migrate out
- Hairy ears, where a dense plug of hair at the entrance of the ear canal stops earwax migrating out
- Chronic ear infections, because the ear produces more earwax to protect itself against infection
- Hearing aids or headphones, which sit at the entrance of the ear canal and stop earwax leaving the ear
- Dusty environments, which increase the build-up of debris and dust in the ear canal
If any of these apply to you, professional earwax removal may be necessary.
Who Is Most Likely to Develop Impacted Earwax?
The following groups are more likely to develop excessive earwax:
- Patients with a history of chronic middle or outer ear infections
- Hearing aid and earplug users, because these devices block the entrance of the ear canal
- Older patients, who tend to have narrower ear canals
- People with hairy ears, as the hair creates a barrier that stops earwax migrating
- People of any age with narrow ear canals, including those born with them
- Patients with psoriasis or eczema, as flaky skin adds to the build-up
Common Symptoms of an Earwax Blockage
- Itchy, dry ears
- A feeling of fullness in the ears, especially when you move your jaw
- A sudden drop in hearing in one or both ears
- Ear pain (otalgia), ranging from mild to acute discomfort
- Tinnitus (ringing in your ears)
- Dizziness or slight imbalance, especially if earwax is touching the eardrum
For more general advice, see the NHS guide to earwax build-up.
Complications of an Untreated Earwax Blockage
If you leave an earwax blockage untreated, it can lead to more chronic issues:
- Infection: earwax that stays in the ear canal can cause chronic otitis externa.
- Tinnitus: this often appears with a complete blockage, and it may last for a considerable time afterwards.
- Pain: this can be quite acute if the earwax sits close to or on the eardrum.
How Doctors Treat an Earwax Blockage
A professional assessment usually includes:
- A full case history of your symptoms, to rule out any underlying condition
- An otoscopic examination to check the health of the ear canal and look for infection or earwax
- Tympanometry, which checks how the eardrum moves to rule out middle ear problems
Once the clinician confirms earwax, they can use one of the following treatments:
- Microsuction: gentle suction removes the earwax from the ear canal. It is a completely dry procedure and the gold standard method for earwax removal.
- Cerumenolytics: drops such as hydrogen peroxide, olive oil or sodium bicarbonate soften the earwax.
- Ear irrigation: warm water at body temperature helps flush earwax out of the ear canal.
- Manual instruments (curettage): the clinician removes the earwax by hand. This is especially useful for patients with existing tinnitus, because microsuction and irrigation can be quite noisy.
Are There Safe Ways to Manage Earwax at Home?
It is always best to consult a professional. However, there are ways to manage earwax build-up at home:
- Use olive oil drops regularly, as they help keep earwax soft and loose.
- Avoid earplugs or headphones that go into the ear canal.
- Only clean the outer part of the ear with a wet flannel.
- Never use tissue or cotton buds inside the ear canal.
- Avoid homemade DIY irrigation kits. Many of these products sold online are unregulated, and they can perforate the eardrum.
Our ear wax specialists in Birmingham provide expert care for blocked ears using safe, advanced techniques.
Book an Appointment for Professional Earwax Removal
Struggling with an earwax blockage? Don’t wait for your symptoms to get worse. Our Birmingham earwax removal clinic offers same-day appointments for safe, painless earwax removal. Book online today and enjoy clearer hearing.
Common Questions About Earwax Blockage
Can Cotton Swabs Safely Remove Earwax?
No. Using cotton swabs to clean your ears can cause several problems. For example, they can irritate the hairs inside the ear canal. They can also stimulate the glands to produce excess earwax.
What Should You Avoid When Treating Earwax Impaction?
If you are removing earwax at home, avoid suction devices, because they are unlikely to clear the earwax. Some people also try ear candles as a natural removal method. However, they can cause injuries and damage the eardrum.
Can Earwax Build-Up Affect Hearing?
Yes. Earwax build-up can significantly affect your hearing. As it builds up, it blocks the ear canal. It also stops sound waves from reaching the eardrum, which reduces your ability to hear.
How Can Hearing Loss Affect Your Life?
Hearing loss can have a significant impact on daily life. For instance, it may make conversations hard to follow, especially in noisy places. People may also avoid social interactions. As a result, this can affect their relationships with those around them.
How Do You Get Earwax Out of Your Ear?
To remove earwax safely, start with ear drops. These soften the wax and make it easier to remove. If the problem persists, a professional may suggest ear irrigation. Alternatively, they may recommend manual removal or microsuction.
What Happens If You Have Too Much Wax in Your Ear?
Excessive earwax can cause discomfort due to pressure build-up. It can also block the ear canal. As a result, you may notice hearing loss, a persistent ringing (tinnitus) or earache. Over time, trapped wax can also create an environment where bacteria grow, which can lead to infection. Therefore, it is best to seek medical advice promptly to prevent further complications.