Earwax blockage

What is Earwax Blockage?
Earwax (Cerumen) is a natural defense mechanism that traps dirt and slows bacterial growth. Blockage occurs when wax accumulates or becomes too hard to wash away naturally.

While usually helpful, excessive wax can cause pain, hearing loss, and infection.

Symptoms

Signs of blockage include:

• Earache.
• Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear.
• Tinnitus: Ringing or noises in the ear.
• Decreased hearing (often sudden).
• Dizziness.
• Coughing (stimulated by nerves in the ear canal).

⚠️ WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
Do not try to dig it out yourself. See a doctor if you have:

• Severe ear pain.
• Drainage (fluid/blood) from the ear.
• Fever or hearing loss that doesn't go away.

Causes

Why does it happen? In most people, wax naturally migrates to the ear opening and falls out. Blockages occur when:

• Overproduction: Your glands secrete more wax than your body can clear.
• Anatomy: Narrow or hairy ear canals can trap wax.
• Cotton Swabs (Q-tips): The most common cause. Using swabs pushes wax deeper into the canal rather than removing it, packing it tight against the eardrum.
• Hearing Aids/Earbuds: Frequent use can block wax from exiting naturally.

Complications

If left untreated, impacted earwax can lead to:

• Ear Infection (Otitis Externa): Trapped bacteria cause inflammation and pain.
• Perforated Eardrum: Pressure from hard wax (or attempts to remove it) can tear the eardrum.
• Permanent Hearing Loss: In rare, severe, long-term cases.

Diagnosis

A doctor can easily diagnose blockage by looking into your ear with an Otoscope (a lighted magnifying instrument).

Treatment

Doctors use safe methods to remove the impaction without damaging the eardrum.

Professional Removal

• Curette: A small, curved instrument used to scoop out wax.
• Microsuction: Using a tiny vacuum to suck the wax out.
• Irrigation: Flushing the ear with warm water using a rubber-bulb syringe or water pick.

Home Care (Preventive)

If you are prone to buildup, your doctor may recommend:

• Softening Drops: Using Carbamide Peroxide drops (like Debrox) every 4-8 weeks to keep wax soft.
• Mineral Oil: A few drops of baby oil or mineral oil can help loosen wax.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.