Is Earwax Causing Your Hearing Loss? Here’s What You Need to Know!
Many patients visit our clinic worried about hearing loss, only to find out that the culprit is something simple—earwax buildup! If you’ve been experiencing muffled sounds, ear fullness, or discomfort, your ears might just need a professional cleaning.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about earwax, ear wax removal and how to keep your ears healthy.
What Is Earwax and Why Do We Have It?
Earwax (cerumen) is a natural defense mechanism of the body, designed to protect the ears by trapping dust, bacteria, and debris before they reach the eardrum. Under normal conditions, earwax naturally migrates out of the ear. However, excessive buildup can lead to discomfort and hearing issues, requiring professional care.
How temporary hearing loss happens:
Here are top 4 reasons for temporary hearing loss
Blockage of Sound Waves
Excess earwax can cover the ear canal, preventing sound from reaching the eardrum properly. This leads to muffled or reduced hearing.
Pressure on the Eardrum
A large wax buildup can put pressure on the eardrum, affecting how it vibrates in response to sound waves.
Trapped Moisture
When earwax traps water or moisture, it can cause a feeling of fullness in the ear, further affecting hearing clarity.
Impaction from Cotton Swabs or Earbuds
Pushing earwax deeper with cotton swabs or earbuds can cause it to harden, completely blocking the ear canal.
Signs of Excess Earwax Buildup
Muffled Hearing –
Sensation of Fullness or Pressure –
Persistent Itching or Discomfort –
Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus) –
Dizziness or Imbalance –
Ear ache or Pain –
Difficulty with Phone Conversations –
Hearing Loss that Worsens Over Time –
Sounds may seem dull or unclear due to blockage.
A feeling of something stuck inside the ear.
Irritation in the ear canal due to trapped wax.
A buzzing or ringing noise caused by wax pressing on the eardrum.
Severe wax buildup can affect balance and coordination.
Hardened wax can cause discomfort and mild ear pain.
Struggling to hear properly during calls.
Gradual reduction in hearing clarity.
Why Does Earwax Get Impacted?
Some people are more prone to earwax buildup due to:
Using cotton swabs
This pushes wax deeper instead of removing it.
Frequent earphone use
Traps wax inside, preventing its natural movement.
Frequent earphone use
Traps wax inside, preventing its natural movement.
Aging
Wax gets drier with age, making it harder to come out naturally.
Narrow ear canals
Some people naturally produce more wax or have smaller ear canals, leading to blockages.
How to Safely Remove Earwax
DO NOT use cotton swabs, hairpins, or ear candles — they can push wax deeper or cause injury!
Instead, try these methods:
Over-the-counter ear drops – These soften the wax, helping it to come out naturally. eg: Clearwax, Soliwax etc. (Should be used under doctors prescription)
Professional ear cleaning – If symptoms persist, visit a doctor for safe earwax removal using suction or irrigation.
When to Visit a Doctor
If you have persistent hearing loss, ear pain, or dizziness, get your ears checked! Many patients regain their hearing instantly after a simple earwax removal.
Preventing Future Build-Up
Avoid inserting objects into your ears.
Use ear drops occasionally if you’re prone to wax buildup.
If you wear hearing aids or earphones often, get regular ear checkups.
Final Thoughts
Before assuming the worst about your hearing loss, get your ears checked! A quick earwax removal could be all you need to restore your hearing. If you’re struggling with blocked ears, visit our clinic for a painless, expert cleaning. Your ears will thank you!