Signs & Symptoms of Earwax Build-up

Suffering with signs & symptoms of earwax build-up?

Earwax, while crucial for protecting your ears, can sometimes accumulate and lead to discomfort or even hearing loss. Recognizing the signs and symptoms early on is key to addressing the problem and preventing complications. In this blog post we will look at some of the main signs of a possible earwax build-up.

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What is earwax?

Earwax, also called cerumen, is produced by the special glands in the skin of the outer ear canal. In most cases, the earwax will make its way through the ear canal, reach the outer ear’s opening, and fall off. When the earwax doesn’t get cleared naturally then it becomes hard and impacted.

Main signs & symptoms of Earwax Build-up

Hearing Loss or Muffled Hearing: One of the most noticeable signs of earwax build-up is a decrease in hearing clarity or a feeling of muffled sound.

Earache or Discomfort: If you experience ear pain or a persistent feeling of fullness or pressure in your ear, earwax blockage could be the culprit.

Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears): Earwax build-up can sometimes cause tinnitus, a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in your ears.

Itchiness or Irritation: The ear canal may become itchy or irritated due to trapped wax.

Vertigo or Dizziness: In some cases, excessive earwax can lead to balance problems and a sense of dizziness or vertigo.

What are the causes of ear wax build-up?

There are a number of factors that can lead to excess production or build-up of ear wax. These include:

Visit the NHS website page for earwax for the latest information and guidance. 

Over-the-counter treatments

If excess earwax is causing issues, over-the-counter options are often the initial recommendation. Consult your pharmacy team for personalised advice and suitable treatment options.

Usually, medical-grade olive oil eardrops are recommended as they gently soften the earwax and help with the natural removal of earwax from the ear.

Avoid inserting anything, including cotton buds, into your ears. This can push wax deeper, irritate the delicate ear canal, or even damage your eardrum.

If your ear wax build-up persists even after using the over-the-counter treatments, you might want to consider a professional earwax removal service such as microsuction earwax removal.

Professional ear wax removal methods

If you are looking for a professional ear wax removal service, you might want to find out about the common methods used for ear wax removal by professionals in clinics.
Microsuction – This procedure involves a trained professional using a gentle suction device to remove the ear wax whilst using a microscope to look inside the ear at the same time. This helps with targeting the earwax, requiring minimal contact with the rest of the ear canal. The procedure is also performed whilst the ear is dry, with the need to inject water into the ear.
Irrigation – Also known as syringing, this procedure is performed by fully trained professionals to remove ear wax by syringing warm water. The water dislodges ear wax and flushes the wax out of the ear canal. Although this procedure is used by professionals, some patients might experience discomfort.
If you have any ear conditions, perforated eardrums or had ear surgery, these procedures might not be suitable for you. Speak with your doctor if you have any concerns.

Professional Earwax Removal in Brighton

Microsuction is a safe and effective method of professional earwax removal. At our Brighton clinic based in Matlock Pharmacy, the procedure is carried about by a fully trained professional.

An increasing number of clinics are using the microsuction ear wax method as it is widely regarded as the safest and most efficient method of removing earwax in clinics.

You can now book an appointment online with our clinic in Brighton.

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Signs & Symptoms of Earwax Build-up