Ear
Earwax Blockage
Earwax, also called cerumen, is a normal protective substance produced in the ear canal. It helps protect the skin and trap dirt, and usually moves out of the ear naturally.
Sometimes, wax accumulates and causes symptoms or prevents a clear examination of the eardrum. This is called earwax impaction. It does not necessarily indicate poor hygiene, and healthy ears do not need routine internal cleaning.
Why Does Earwax Build Up?
Some people are more prone to blockage because their ear canals are narrow, hairy or affected by a skin condition. Hearing aids and devices worn inside the ear can also contribute to wax accumulation.
Attempts to remove wax with cotton buds may push it deeper into the canal, making the blockage worse.
What Symptoms Can Occur?
Possible symptoms include:
- Muffled or reduced hearing.
- A blocked or full sensation in the ear.
- Ringing or buzzing sounds.
- Itching or discomfort.
- Changes in hearing aid performance.
These symptoms are not specific to earwax. An infection, fluid behind the eardrum or an inner ear hearing problem can produce similar complaints.
How Is It Assessed?
A clinician examines the ear canal to confirm whether wax is responsible for the symptoms. Previous ear surgery, eardrum perforation, ventilation tubes and other health conditions are considered before choosing a removal method.
If hearing difficulties remain after the blockage is cleared, further examination or hearing tests may be needed.
What Are the Removal Options?
Wax that causes no symptoms and does not interfere with examination can usually be left alone. When removal is appropriate, options include:
- Wax-softening drops recommended by a pharmacist or clinician.
- Microsuction, which removes wax using a small suction device.
- Careful removal with specialised instruments.
- Controlled irrigation, when suitable for the ear.
The choice depends on the wax, the condition of the canal and eardrum, and the person’s medical history. No single method is appropriate for everyone.
Do not use wax-softening drops or irrigate the ear without specialist advice if you have a perforated eardrum, ventilation tubes or previous ear surgery.
What Should You Avoid?
Do not insert cotton buds, hairpins or other objects into the ear canal. They can compact the wax or injure the canal and eardrum.
Ear candles do not reliably remove wax and can cause burns or other injury. Clean only the outside of the ear with a soft cloth.
For recurring blockage, discuss an individual prevention plan rather than repeatedly cleaning inside the ear. Hearing aid users should follow the recommended device-cleaning instructions.
When Should You Seek Medical Advice?
Arrange an assessment if blockage persists, hearing is affected or you are unsure of the cause.
Sudden hearing loss needs urgent assessment; do not assume it is wax or delay seeking help while trying drops. Pain, discharge or bleeding also warrants medical review.
Discuss Your Symptoms
Contact the clinic to arrange an assessment for a blocked ear, recurring wax build-up or changes in hearing.
This information provides general guidance and does not replace an individual medical assessment.
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