Signs and Symptoms of ear wax build-up

In the UK, there are estimated to be 2.3 million people that have a problem with earwax and they need to have it removed. If you are suffering from ear wax build-up, search for your local earwax removal clinic on our website and book your appointment today.

Before we get down to the signs and symptoms of earwax build-up, it is important to understand what is ear wax and why does our body product it?

So let's get started.

What is ear wax?

Earwax, or cerumen, is a grey, orange, or yellow substance produced in the ear canal. The skin in the outer ear canal has special glands that produce earwax. The fancy name for this waxy stuff is cerumen.

What is the function of ear wax?

Ear wax aids the removal of bacteria, dust, foreign particles, and microorganisms from the ears and also protects the ear. It also acts as a lubricant, reducing irritation of the skin in the ear canal.

What are the main signs and symptoms of earwax build-up?

As we discussed that earwax is good for your ear health as it protects your ears from foreign objects and bugs, however, when there is a build-up of wax in your ears, it can lead to unpleasant symptoms.

Earwax buildup causes the following symptoms:

• Hearing loss
• Earache or a feeling that your ears or blocked-up
• Tinnitus - hearing ringing or buzzing noises in your ears
• Vertigo (feeling sick and dizzy)

You should contact your doctor if you suffer from severe persistent pain, hearing loss, temperature, cough, odour or discharge from your ear. For the latest guidelines on earwax blockage, visit the NHS website https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/earwax-build-up

What causes an earwax buildup?

Some individuals are susceptible to excessive earwax production. Extra wax, however, does not always result in a blockage. In fact, at-home earwax removal is the most common cause of earwax blockage.

Using cotton swabs, bobby pins, or other things in your ear canal can push wax farther into the ear canal, causing a blockage.

How to treat earwax buildup?

You should never try to manually remove earwax buildup on your own. This can potentially cause ear damage and infection, as well as hearing loss.

However, you may be able to clear the excess earwax on your own from the outer ear. Cotton swabs should only be used on the outside region of your ears if necessary.

To remove earwax, do not use your fingers or any other things such as cotton buds. This will force the earwax in and exacerbate the problem.

Usually, earwax will fall out naturally in small pieces or chunks.

Over the counter treatments for earwax

If you find that your ears are blocked with earwax, there are over-the-counter drops to help the wax soften up so that it can easily clear away.

The most commonly recommended treatment is to use medical-grade olive oil or almond oil ear drops. Apply 2-3 drops up to 4 times a day for 3-5 days.

The oil will gently soften the hard wax and aid its removal from the ear.

There are also other ear drops that you can try if the olive oil or almond oil drops doesn't clear the wax. Speak to your pharmacy team for advice on which product will be most suitable for you.

Earwax Removal by Microsuction

For most of us, the above earwax removal treatments will work. However, some people might need the removal of the earwax by a trained professional.

The two most common methods of earwax removal used by professionals are microsuction and irrigation.

A vacuum is used to gently remove any excess wax from your ears during microsuction earwax removal. It's one of the most effective ways to clean your ears, and it can be done in-store by one of our specially trained members of staff.

You should use medical-grade olive oil ear drops for 5-7 days before your appointment to ensure that the wax softens. You can pick up these ear drops from your local pharmacy.