Earwax Blockage – Symptoms and Causes
Earwax blockage occurs when too much earwax accumulates in the ear canal. This can lead to symptoms such as earache, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and hearing loss. In some cases, earwax blockage can also cause ringing in the ear, dizziness, or a cough.
Symptoms
The symptoms of earwax blockage can vary from person to person. Some people may experience earache or an ear infection. Others may feel like their ears are clogged or full.
Meanwhile, some people may have trouble hearing or experience ringing in the ear. In rare cases, earwax blockage can also cause dizziness, a cough, or an odor coming from the ear.
Causes of Earwax Blockage
Earwax blockage can happen for several reasons. Some people naturally produce more earwax than others. For others, their earwax may harden and become difficult to remove.
Additionally, using cotton swabs or hearing aids can also push earwax deeper into the ear canal.
Treatment Options
Treatment for earwax blockage usually involves softening the earwax and removing it from the ear. This can be done using over-the-counter ear drops or by having a healthcare professional remove the earwax.
In some cases, people may also need to use a syringe to flush out the earwax.
When to Seek Help for Earwax Issues
Earwax blockages without symptoms sometimes clear up on their own. However, if you notice problems like hearing difficulties or ear pain, it’s important to talk with a healthcare provider.
Many people assume symptoms like earaches mean they have too much earwax. In reality, only a healthcare professional can properly determine if excess earwax is present by examining your ears.
Similar symptoms might point to different ear conditions that require specific treatment.
Never attempt to remove earwax yourself by inserting objects into your ear canal. Cotton swabs and other items can:
- Damage the delicate ear canal
- Harm the eardrum
- Push wax deeper into the ear
This warning is especially important if you’ve had ear surgery, have a perforated eardrum, or are experiencing ear pain or drainage.
For children, ear examinations are typically part of routine medical checkups. If a healthcare provider finds excess earwax during the visit, they can safely remove it using proper techniques and equipment.
Healthcare providers have the right tools and training to safely remove earwax without causing harm to these sensitive structures.
