Is Ear Wax Affecting Your Hearing? Signs You Need Professional Ear Cleaning

Ear wax, or cerumen, is one of those bodily substances that people rarely think about—until it becomes a problem. While it may not be the most glamorous topic, ear wax plays a vital role in keeping your ears healthy. It traps dirt, dust, and bacteria, preventing harmful debris from reaching the eardrum. However, too much ear wax can cause clogged ears, muffled hearing, and even ear pain.

If you’ve ever experienced sudden hearing loss, a full feeling in your ears, or the urge to dig around with a cotton swab (please don’t), it might be time for a professional ear wax removal. Let’s explore how ear wax can affect hearing and when to seek help from a professional.

Fun Facts About Ear Wax (Yes, They Exist!)

• Did you know that ear wax is actually self-cleaning? The ear naturally pushes old wax out as part of its maintenance system.
• Not all ear wax is the same—Asians and Native Americans tend to have dry, flaky ear wax, while Caucasians and African Americans usually have moist and sticky ear wax.
• The average human produces about a pea-sized amount of ear wax each month—enough to do its job, but not so much that it should block hearing.

How Does Ear Wax Cause Hearing Loss?

While ear wax is beneficial in small amounts, an excessive buildup can clog the ear canal and muffle sound. This can make conversations seem faint, make TV volumes unbearable for those around you, and even cause ear discomfort or dizziness.

Ear wax can cause temporary hearing loss, meaning sound waves cannot properly reach the eardrum. In some cases, impacted ear wax can cause up to a 10-decibel reduction in hearing, which is about the same as wearing foam earplugs all day.

Signs You Might Have an Ear Wax Problem

Not sure if clogged ears are due to ear wax buildup? Here are some telltale signs that you may need a professional ear cleaning:

1. Muffled or Reduced Hearing

If conversations sound distant or you struggle to hear the TV even at higher volumes, ear wax may be blocking sound waves from reaching your eardrum. This is one of the most common signs of buildup.

2. A Full or Plugged Sensation

A feeling of pressure or fullness in your ear that doesn’t go away after yawning or swallowing could be a sign of an ear wax blockage.

3. Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus)

Impacted ear wax can contribute to tinnitus, a persistent ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. If you notice a sudden onset of tinnitus, excessive wax could be the culprit.

4. Ear Pain or Discomfort

Excess wax pressing against the eardrum can cause irritation, pressure, and even pain. If left untreated, this can lead to infections or dizziness.

5. Dizziness or Balance Issues

Your inner ear plays a role in balance. A clogged ear canal due to ear wax can cause vertigo or mild dizziness, making everyday movements feel unsteady.

6. You’ve Been Using Cotton Swabs (Bad Idea!)

If you regularly use cotton swabs to clean your ears, you might actually be pushing wax deeper instead of removing it. This can lead to compacted wax, which is much harder to remove without professional help.

Does Age Affect Ear Wax Production?

Absolutely! Age plays a role in how much wax your body produces and how easily it is removed.

• Children and Young Adults: Ear wax is typically softer and naturally moves out of the ear canal. However, frequent use of earbuds or hearing aids can trap wax and cause buildup.
• Middle-Aged Adults: Some people overproduce ear wax due to genetics, leading to more frequent blockages.
• Older Adults & Hearing Aid Users: As people age, ear wax becomes drier and harder, making it more likely to get impacted. Hearing aids can also trap wax, leading to frequent issues.

If you are over 60 years old, you should consider professional ear cleaning at least once a year to prevent buildup from affecting your hearing.

How Is Ear Wax Professionally Removed?

If you suspect ear wax and hearing loss are linked, a hearing specialist can provide safe and effective removal. Here’s what to expect:

1. Ear Examination

A specialist will use an otoscope to inspect your ear canal and determine whether wax buildup is causing your symptoms.

2. Professional Cleaning Methods

There are several safe methods professionals use to remove ear wax without damaging the ear canal:

• Irrigation: A controlled flow of warm water flushes out excess wax.
• Manual Removal: Specialized tools like a curette or suction device gently extract impacted wax.
• Microsuction: A safe, painless method using gentle suction to clear out ear wax.

3. Immediate Relief and Improved Hearing

Once the wax is removed, hearing often improves instantly, and any pressure or discomfort disappears.

At-Home Ear Wax Removal: What NOT to Do

Many people try DIY methods before seeking professional help, but some techniques can do more harm than good:

• Cotton Swabs: These only push wax deeper into the ear canal.
• Ear Candling: Studies have shown this to be ineffective and potentially dangerous, as it can cause burns and introduce debris into the ear.
• Sharp Objects: Using bobby pins, keys, or paperclips to “scoop out” wax can damage the eardrum and lead to infections.

If you suspect ear wax buildup, the safest option is professional ear cleaning to prevent damage and ensure effective removal.

Don’t Let Ear Wax Affect Your Hearing – Visit El Dorado Hearing Today!

If you are experiencing clogged ears, muffled hearing, or persistent discomfort, don’t wait until it worsens. At El Dorado Hearing, we provide safe, professional ear wax removal that restores hearing clarity and prevents future issues.

Take control of your ear health today! Contact El Dorado Hearing in Tucson to schedule a professional ear cleaning and hearing evaluation. A simple appointment could be the key to better hearing and long-term ear health. Call us now and experience the relief of clear, healthy ears!