Is Earwax Buildup Affecting You?

Your ears are designed to take care of themselves, but sometimes, they need a little help.

Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance that helps protect your ear canal from dust, debris, and bacteria.

It usually finds its way out of the ear on its own, but in some cases, it can build up and cause discomfort or even temporary hearing loss.

If you’ve ever felt like your ears were blocked or your hearing suddenly became muffled, earwax could be the cause.

The most common reason for earwax buildup is actually the attempt to remove it.

Using cotton swabs, bobby pins, or even your fingers can push the wax deeper into the canal rather than clearing it, which often leads to blockage.

Frequent use of earbuds or hearing aids can also prevent wax from naturally exiting the ear, causing it to accumulate over time.

When earwax builds up, you might notice a sudden decrease in hearing, a ringing or buzzing sound known as tinnitus, or a sensation of fullness in the ear.

These symptoms are usually temporary, but they can become persistent if the wax isn’t removed properly.

In more serious cases, earwax buildup can lead to infection.

If you experience severe pain, ongoing drainage, dizziness, or a foul odor from your ear, it’s important to contact a healthcare provider.

These symptoms could indicate a more serious issue requiring medical attention.

For most people, gentle at-home care is effective and safe when done correctly.

You can soften the wax using over-the-counter drops, mineral oil, baby oil, or even hydrogen peroxide.

After softening, ear irrigation with body-temperature water can help flush out the wax.

It’s critical not to use water that is too cold or hot, as it can cause dizziness.

Never irrigate your ears if you suspect a punctured eardrum or have had recent ear surgery.

Children also produce earwax, and it’s best to avoid removing it unless it’s visibly causing problems.

Pediatricians typically monitor and remove excess wax during regular checkups if necessary.

Older adults may not notice buildup until it affects hearing, and hearing aids can contribute to this problem by blocking natural wax movement.

Medical professionals can remove wax using irrigation, suction, or a small instrument called a curette.

These procedures are quick, painless, and often restore hearing immediately.

Some people may be tempted to try ear candles, but this method is not only ineffective, it’s also dangerous.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued warnings about ear candling, citing risks such as burns, bleeding, and punctured eardrums FDA Warning.

Despite their popularity, ear candles do not create effective suction and can cause more harm than good.

Earwax, while sometimes frustrating, is a sign that your ears are working to protect themselves.

Avoid inserting objects into the canal, be cautious with at-home treatments, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed.

In most cases, once the wax is removed, your symptoms will quickly resolve and your ears will feel clear again.

With the right care, you can maintain healthy ears without unnecessary risk.