Earwax Blockage

Earwax blockage is a common annoying issue that can cause many painful symptoms and can actually lead to serious complications.

Earwax blockage

Earwax blockage occurs when the earwax builds up in the ear in a way that makes it hard for it to remove it naturally. Impacted earwax can occur to anyone at any age.

The earwax plays an essential role in defending the ears against dirt and bacteria, and it protects them from many problems. The ears clean themselves of earwax regularly.

Causes and risk factors of earwax blockage

• Some people produce more earwax than others.
• Using cotton swabs to clean the ears, which may result in pushing the earwax deeper into the ear.
• Wearing earplugs or hearing aids frequently.
• The earwax is hard and dry.
• Having a lot of ear hair.
• Having narrow ear canals.
• The risk of earwax buildup increases due to the following factors: being older than 55, certain skin conditions like eczema, and having developmental disabilities.

Symptoms of earwax blockage

• Pain in the ear.
• Itchiness and irritation.
• Feeling of fullness in the ear.
• Hearing loss that may worsen with time.
• Tinnitus.
• Dizziness.
• Discharges or smells coming out of the ear.
• If left unmanaged, earwax blockage can make the symptoms become worse.

Diagnosis of earwax blockage

• Examining the ears.

Treatment of earwax blockage

• You can manage earwax blockage by using solutions to dissolve the earwax or by rinsing the ear with water or saline solution with a syringe.
• The healthcare provider can remove the earwax buildup with special instruments.
• To reduce the risk of earwax blockage, don’t use cotton swabs to remove the earwax, and only use them to clean the outer part of the ear.