How Can You Tell if You Have an Earwax Impaction?

Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It plays a vital role in protecting your ears by trapping dust, debris and microorganisms, preventing them from reaching deeper parts of the ear. Normally, earwax moves out of the ear naturally, carrying away unwanted particles and drying up before falling out. However, in some cases, earwax can build up and create a blockage, leading to what is known as earwax impaction. Identifying an earwax impaction early can help prevent hearing issues and ensure that your ears remain healthy.

What Is Earwax Impaction?

Earwax impaction occurs when earwax accumulates in the ear canal to the point where it causes a blockage. This can happen for a variety of reasons, like using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ears, which can push the wax deeper into the ear canal. Some people also naturally produce more earwax than others, increasing the likelihood of impaction. Earwax impaction can affect people of all ages and may lead to a range of symptoms that impact your hearing and overall ear health.

Common Signs of Earwax Impaction

One of the most common indicators of earwax impaction is a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear. This sensation can vary, depending on the extent of the buildup. People often describe it as feeling like their ear is plugged or as if there is something stuck inside.

Hearing loss is another symptom of earwax impaction. When earwax blocks the ear canal, it can prevent sound from reaching the eardrum, leading to a decrease in hearing ability. This type of hearing loss is typically temporary and can be resolved once the impaction is removed.

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can also be a sign of earwax impaction. When earwax presses against the eardrum, it can cause sounds like ringing, buzzing or hissing. These sounds may be constant or intermittent and can vary in intensity. While tinnitus can be caused by many different factors, earwax impaction is one of the more common.

Why You Should See an Audiologist

If you suspect you have an earwax impaction, it’s important to schedule an appointment with an audiologist rather than attempting to remove the earwax yourself. Using cotton swabs, hairpins or other objects to clean your ears can push the wax further into the ear canal, making the impaction worse. Over-the-counter earwax removal kits and oils are also not recommended, as they can sometimes cause harm, particularly if the earwax is deeply impacted.

An audiologist is trained to safely and effectively remove earwax impactions. During your visit, your audiologist will examine your ears using an otoscope, a device that provides a clear view of the ear canal and eardrum. If an impaction is present, they will use specialized tools to remove the earwax without causing damage to the ear. In some cases, your audiologist may recommend a follow-up visit to ensure that the earwax has been completely removed and that your hearing has returned to normal.

If you suspect you have an earwax impaction, the best course of action is to schedule an appointment with an audiologist. They can safely and effectively remove the impaction and provide you with the care and advice needed to keep your ears healthy.