Ear wax is a naturally occurring substance that serves an important role in protecting your ears. It traps dirt, dust, and other foreign particles, preventing them from reaching deeper parts of the ear canal. Most of the time, ear wax gradually makes its way out of the ears on its own, thanks to our jaw movements when we talk, chew, or yawn. However, there are times when this natural process is disrupted, leading to a build-up known as impacted ear wax.
At Suction Ears, we often encounter clients who aren’t aware that their ear-related symptoms are caused by a wax build-up. To help you recognise when it might be time to seek professional ear care, we’ve put together a list of the most common signs that you may have impacted ear wax.
- Earache or Pain
One of the most noticeable signs of impacted ear wax is a persistent earache. When wax builds up, it can press against the sensitive skin lining the ear canal or even come into contact with the eardrum, causing pain or discomfort. This pressure can vary from mild irritation to a more intense, throbbing sensation. If you’re experiencing ongoing ear pain, it’s important to have your ears checked, as it could be due to an impacted wax build-up or an underlying condition.
- Hearing Loss or Muffled Hearing
A sudden change in your hearing can be alarming, and impacted ear wax is one of the most common, yet easily treatable, causes. When ear wax accumulates, it can block the ear canal, making it harder for sound waves to reach the eardrum. This blockage can result in muffled hearing, similar to the sensation of having water trapped in your ear. If you notice a decrease in your hearing or a “full” feeling in one or both ears, it may be due to a wax obstruction that needs professional removal.
- Tinnitus (Ringing or Buzzing Sounds)
Tinnitus, or the perception of ringing, buzzing, or humming sounds in your ears, is another common symptom of impacted ear wax. When wax presses against the eardrum or nerves in the ear, it can cause abnormal auditory signals to be sent to your brain, resulting in tinnitus. While tinnitus can have many causes, it’s always a good idea to rule out ear wax as a potential factor, especially if it’s a new or sudden onset.
- Dizziness or Imbalance
Your ears play a crucial role in maintaining balance. Impacted ear wax can sometimes affect the function of the inner ear, leading to dizziness or vertigo. If you feel unsteady on your feet or experience bouts of dizziness, it could be due to excessive wax build-up interfering with the balance mechanisms in your ears. Removing the impacted wax often resolves these symptoms and restores normal balance.
- Itching or Discomfort Inside the Ear
If your ears are feeling unusually itchy or uncomfortable, this could be a sign of impacted wax. When ear wax accumulates, it can cause irritation to the delicate skin in the ear canal. Scratching or using cotton buds to relieve this itch can make the situation worse by pushing the wax further into the canal, increasing the risk of infection or impaction. It’s best to leave the removal to a professional if you’re experiencing persistent itching inside your ears.
- A Fullness or Blocked Sensation in the Ear
A sensation of fullness or blockage in your ear is a common sign of impacted ear wax. Many people describe it as feeling like their ear is “plugged up,” which can be uncomfortable and affect their ability to hear properly. This fullness may worsen when lying down or change with different head positions, indicating a possible wax impaction.
- Odour or Discharge from the Ear
While less common, an unpleasant odour or discharge from the ear can be a sign of impacted ear wax, particularly if the wax has become infected. If you notice a strange smell, liquid discharge, or a feeling of wetness inside your ear, it’s important to see a healthcare professional promptly to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
What Causes Ear Wax Impaction?
There are several factors that can contribute to ear wax impaction, including:
- Using Cotton Buds or Other Objects: Using cotton buds, hairpins, or other objects to clean your ears can push the wax further into the canal, making it more likely to become impacted.
- Ear Shape and Structure: Some people have naturally narrow or curved ear canals, which makes it more difficult for ear wax to exit naturally.
- Frequent Use of Earplugs or Hearing Aids: Ear plugs, hearing aids, or even headphones can prevent wax from moving out of the ear, causing it to build up over time.
- Excessive Ear Wax Production: Certain people naturally produce more ear wax than others, making them more prone to impaction.
What To Do If You Have Impacted Ear Wax
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s time to consider a professional ear examination and cleaning. At Suction Ears, we specialise in microsuction ear wax removal, a safe, effective, and gentle method that removes ear wax using a vacuum-based technique under direct visualisation. Unlike traditional water-based methods like ear syringing, microsuction is ideal for people with sensitive ears, perforated eardrums, or a history of ear infections.
Why Choose Microsuction?
Microsuction is considered the gold standard for ear wax removal because it allows the audiologist to see exactly what they’re doing inside your ear. This minimises the risk of damage to the ear canal or eardrum, making it a much safer option than DIY ear cleaning or traditional water irrigation methods.
Book an Appointment with Suction Ears Today
Don’t let impacted ear wax affect your quality of life. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, contact Suction Ears to schedule a professional consultation. We offer in-clinic appointments as well as mobile services, making it easy and convenient to receive the best ear care possible. Take control of your ear health today!
