Ear wax (cerumen) plays a very important role in protecting your ears. It traps dust, bacteria, and debris, and naturally works its way out of the ear canal. While this process usually happens on its own, sometimes wax builds up and becomes stuck or impacted — and that’s when problems begin.
If ear wax is left untreated, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable, painful, and even risky symptoms. Here’s what can happen.
1. Blocked Ears & Temporary Hearing Loss
One of the most common symptoms of impacted ear wax is a feeling of blocked or muffled hearing. When wax sits against the eardrum or fills the canal, sound can’t travel through like it normally does.
This type of hearing loss is usually temporary, but leaving it untreated for too long may cause:
- Difficulty understanding conversations
- Straining to hear the TV or phone
- Feeling “cut off” from the world
For adults, especially older adults, this can also affect balance and confidence.
2. Earaches, Pressure & Pain
Hardened wax can press against the eardrum and sensitive ear canal, leading to:
- Sharp pain
- Dull aches
- A feeling of fullness
- Pressure behind the ear
Some people also notice pain when chewing or yawning. If the wax shifts suddenly, you may even feel a sharp jab or pop.
3. Tinnitus (Ringing or Buzzing Sounds)
Wax can interfere with how sound and vibrations move through the ear, sometimes triggering tinnitus — a ringing, buzzing, humming or whistling sound.
While removing the wax doesn’t cure tinnitus caused by another medical condition, it often helps relieve tinnitus related to blockages.
4. Increased Risk of Ear Infections
Trapped wax can hold moisture and bacteria, creating the perfect environment for infection to develop.
Signs of infection may include:
- Pain or throbbing
- Fever
- Itchiness
- Fluid or odour from the ear
- Redness or swelling
Ear infections can sometimes lead to longer-term hearing problems if not treated properly.
5. Dizziness or Balance Issues
When wax pushes near or onto the eardrum, it can interfere with how your body senses balance, leading to:
- Vertigo
- Dizziness
- Unsteadiness when walking
This is particularly concerning for older adults who may already be at risk of falls.
How Long Is Too Long?
If you experience any of the following, it’s time to book a wax removal appointment:
✔️ Blocked or muffled hearing
✔️ Pain, pressure or discomfort
✔️ Tinnitus (ringing)
✔️ Suspected water trapped in the ear
✔️ You’re using cotton buds regularly
✔️ You wear hearing aids or ear plugs
✔️ You have a history of heavy or hard wax
Why Microsuction Is a Safer Option
At Suction Ears Audiology, we perform microsuction ear wax removal — a gentle method used by ear specialists and ENTs. It doesn’t involve water irrigation, which can be unsafe for some ears, and is suitable for:
- Narrow ear canals
- Tympanic membrane issues
- Tinnitus sufferers
- Hearing aid users
- People with a history of infections
It’s quick, clean, and most clients experience immediate relief.
Don’t Wait Until It Hurts
Untreated ear wax doesn’t just “go away” — it often gets harder and more compact, making later removal more difficult and uncomfortable.
Most clients benefit from a routine check:
- Every 3 months for hard/dry wax
- Every 6 months for softer or recurring wax
These reviews help prevent blockages and keep ears clear before symptoms begin.
Book Your Appointment
If you’re unsure whether your ears are blocked, we can help.
📍Clinic locations: Keysborough, Mentone, Murrumbeena, Bayswater North, Ringwood, Mitcham
🏡Home visits available (fees based on distance)
👂Concession & Medicare CDM clients welcome
