Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance your body makes to protect your ears. It helps trap dust, debris, and bacteria so they don’t reach your inner ear. But sometimes, it builds up too much and becomes a problem. This is known as earwax blockage, and it can be uncomfortable or even affect your hearing.
In this article, we’ll explain what causes it, how to spot the signs, safe ways to remove earwax blockage, and how to stop it from happening again.
What Causes Earwax Blockage?
Earwax usually moves out of your ears naturally through jaw movements like chewing or talking. But in some cases, this process doesn’t work as it should. Here are the main causes of earwax blockage,:
- Using cotton buds or fingers to clean your ears (this pushes wax deeper inside)
- Wearing hearing aids, earplugs, or earbuds regularly
- Producing more earwax than usual
- Narrow or oddly shaped ear canals
- Skin conditions like eczema that affect the ear
Sometimes, age can also play a role. Older people often produce drier wax that is harder to shift naturally.
Signs and Symptoms of Earwax Blockage
If you’ve got earwax blockage, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Reduced or muffled hearing
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Itchiness in the ear canal
- Earache or discomfort
- Tinnitus (a ringing or buzzing sound in the ear)
- Dizziness or mild balance problems
These symptoms can affect one or both ears, depending on where the blockage is.
How to Remove Earwax Blockage Safely
Avoid using sharp objects or cotton buds to remove wax. This can push the wax deeper or even damage your ear.
Instead, here are safe ways to treat earwax blockage:
1. Ear Drops
Ear drops can soften the wax, making it easier for it to come out naturally. These might contain olive oil, almond oil, or urea hydrogen peroxide. You’ll usually need to use them for a few days.
2. Ear Irrigation
This involves flushing the ear canal with warm water to remove softened wax. It should only be done when it’s safe and there’s no history of ear infections or perforated eardrum.
3. Ear Microsuction
This is one of the safest and most effective ways to remove earwax. A small device gently sucks out the wax using low suction and a microscope for precision. It’s quick, painless, and available at select pharmacies.
4. Manual Removal
In some cases, specially trained experts can use small instruments to manually remove the wax under direct vision. This is usually done when other methods aren’t suitable.
If your symptoms continue even after wax removal, speak to our pharmacists for further guidance.
Can You Prevent Earwax Blockage?
Yes, you can take simple steps to stop earwax from building up again:
- Avoid sticking anything into your ears, including cotton buds
- Use ear drops like olive oil once or twice a week if you’re prone to build-up
- Keep your ears dry and clean, especially after swimming or showering
- Take care when wearing earplugs or hearing aids to reduce irritation
- Consult our pharmacists regularly if you have frequent problems
When to Seek Help
If your hearing suddenly drops or you feel pain or discharge from your ear, it’s best to speak to our pharmacists. They can check your ears safely and advise the best treatment. Don’t ignore earwax blockage, especially if it keeps coming back.
Blocked Ears? Get Quick Relief Nearby
If you live around Stoke Poges and need earwax removal services, book an appointment at Aroga Pharmacy in Farnham Common. Our experts are here to help you hear clearly and comfortably again. No long waits, just professional care you can trust.