Impacted Ear Wax: Causes, Symptoms, and Safe Removal

Impacted earwax happens when too much earwax builds up and becomes stuck in the ear canal. Earwax (also known as cerumen) is natural and helpful, protecting the ear from dirt, dust, and infections. But sometimes, earwax can build up too much or get pushed deeper into the ear canal, leading to impaction.

Normally, earwax moves out of your ear on its own. However, certain things like having narrow ear canals or using cotton swabs can prevent this from happening. When earwax becomes impacted, it can feel uncomfortable and even affect your hearing health.

• Overproduction of Earwax: Some people produce more earwax naturally, which can increase the chances of it becoming impacted.

• Using Cotton Swabs: If you use cotton swabs or put other objects in your ear to clean them, you might accidentally push earwax further into the ear canal, causing impaction.

• Narrow Ear Canals: Some people’s ear canals are naturally narrower or differently shaped, which can make it harder for earwax to move out naturally.

• Hearing Aids and Earphones: If you wear hearing aids, earphones, or earbuds regularly, these devices can trap earwax in your ear, preventing it from leaving the ear canal.

• Aging: As we get older, our earwax naturally becomes drier and harder, making it more likely to get stuck in the ear canal.

If earwax becomes impacted, it can lead to several symptoms, including:

• Ear Pain: Impacted earwax can cause a feeling of pressure or pain in the ear.

• Hearing Loss: If the ear canal is blocked by earwax, your hearing may become muffled or distant.

• Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears): You might hear a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ear if the earwax is blocking your ear canal.

• Itchiness: Earwax can cause irritated or itchy ears when it builds up and becomes impacted.

• Discharge: You might notice a fluid-like discharge from your ear if wax has become impacted.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to have your earwax checked and removed by a professional. Don’t let discomfort or hearing issues linger, book your earwax removal appointment with us today.

It can be difficult to know if your earwax is impacted, especially if you’re not sure about the symptoms. Here are some signs that you may have impacted earwax:

• Fullness or Pressure: Your ear may feel “stuffed” or blocked, which is a common sign of impacted earwax.

• Difficulty Hearing: Sounds may seem muffled or distant, as though you’re listening underwater.

• Pain: You might feel pain or discomfort in your ear, especially when touching it.

• Tinnitus: If you hear a ringing or buzzing in your ears, it could be caused by impacted earwax.

• Itchiness: You may experience an itchy feeling inside your ear due to the buildup.

Noticing any of these symptoms? It’s a good idea to book an earwax removal appointment (which includes a free hearing screening check) free hearing health check with one of our hearing specialists to see if impacted earwax is the cause.

When it comes to removing impacted earwax, safety is key. Removing earwax incorrectly can cause damage to your ear canal or eardrum, so it's important to choose the right method. Here are the safest options:

1. Ear Drops: Over-the-counter ear drops are a gentle way to soften earwax. This makes it easier for the earwax to move out naturally.

2. Microsuction: We offer earwax removal via microsuction, a precise method where a small suction device is used to safely remove earwax from the ear canal. It’s quick, effective, and virtually pain-free.

3. Irrigation: This method uses a gentle stream of warm water to flush the ear canal and dislodge the earwax. It should always be done by a trained professional to avoid causing any damage.

To safely remove earwax at home, you should avoid using cotton swabs or ear candles. These can push earwax further into the ear and cause more problems. If you’re unsure about treating earwax build-up at home, book an earwax removal appointment with one of our hearing team.

• Earwax Buildup: If earwax is causing hearing loss or fullness, our audiologists at Bayfields can remove it safely using microsuction or irrigation.

• Persistent Itchiness or Discomfort: If earwax is causing ongoing irritation, our team can help clear it.

• Routine Ear Health Check-Ups: We offer free hearing health checks to help you stay on top of your ear health.

If you’re concerned about impacted earwax, book an earwax removal appointment and free hearing health check for professional care and advice.