Earwax Buildup: Signs, Symptoms, and Safe Removal Methods

Earwax, also known as cerumen, serves an important protective function for the ear canal. Produced by specialized glands inside the ear, this waxy substance acts as a lubricant and antimicrobial barrier. 

In moderate amounts, earwax helps keep the ear canal clean and dry while preventing infection. 

However, excessive earwax buildup can lead to discomfort and hearing issues if left unchecked. This post explores the signs, causes and safe removal of earwax accumulation.

Causes of Earwax Buildup

Several factors can contribute to an overproduction of earwax that exceeds the ear’s natural clearing mechanisms. Genetics play a role, as some people naturally produce more wax than others. 

Narrow or curved ear canals may cause wax to lodge instead of draining out on its own. Frequent use of cotton swabs, fingers or other objects for cleaning disrupts the ear’s self-cleaning process. Repeated exposure to moisture from swimming, showering or wearing certain ear devices like headphones or hearing aids can also cause excess wet earwax. 

With aging, the wax’s consistency often changes from dry flakes to more compact plugs that are harder to expel. Understanding common risk factors can help prevent dangerous blockages.

Signs and Symptoms

Because the ear canal is narrow, even small amounts of built-up earwax can press on the eardrum and cause symptoms like ear fullness, itchiness or mild hearing impairment. In cases of severe impaction, one may experience sharp pain, a sensation of fluid in the ears or temporary complete hearing loss. 

Others describe noises like crackling, ringing or echoes. Dizziness, coughing or throat clearing are also warning signs. Red flags include fever, discharge oozing out or a foul odor, as these could signal an infection requiring prompt treatment. Not all symptoms necessarily point to earwax as the sole cause, so it’s wise to consult an audiologist for examination and diagnosis of the issue.

Safe Earwax Removal Methods

It is generally not recommended to attempt removing earwax buildup on your own. The ear canal is a delicate area, and it’s easy for objects put in the ear to impact the sensitive eardrum or push wax further inward. This can cause pain and potentially lead to infection. 

Instead, it is best to seek assistance from a medical professional to safely remove any excessive earwax.

One method used by professionals is ear irrigation, also called ear lavage or ear washing. During this procedure, a healthcare provider will use a rubber bulb or electric syringe to carefully flush the ear canal with a warm saline solution. This helps soften and dissolve any hardened wax while gently dislodging and suctioning out the debris. 

Only trained audiologists or doctors should perform ear irrigation to ensure it is done slowly at the proper angle and depth. Overt-forcing the solution into the ear could potentially damage the delicate structures.

For some cases of milder buildup, over-the-counter ear drops may provide relief. Drops containing ingredients like carbamide peroxide or glycerin work to slowly soften earwax over time so it naturally drains out on its own. 

This makes the wax easier to remove during the next gentle cleaning. It is important to use drops as directed and not put any other substances in the ear that could further complicate the issue.

In more severe cases with very hard or impacted wax, a healthcare provider may use special handheld microscopic tools during an office visit. 

One such tool is a narrow metal curette, shaped like a small spoon or scoop, to gently scrape away hardened plugs. Suction devices can also gently vacuum out loosened debris while minimizing risk of damaging the ear canal. Both require a trained eye and steady hand.

Hearing aid wearers should ensure regular cleanings by an audiologist. This is important for preventing accumulation of earwax both in and around the device which could impact sound quality and harm the delicate technology. Proper cleaning maintains optimal hearing aid performance and comfort.

Closing Thoughts

Earwax is naturally produced to protect the ear, but excess buildup causes troubling symptoms requiring relief. 

By learning common causes, recognizing warning signs and seeking a medical professional’s help, you take important steps toward maintaining healthy hearing. With timely care and prevention of future impactions, your ears can keep performing their job protecting your auditory health for years to come.