Earwax Blockage

Overview

Earwax blockage occurs when earwax (cerumen) builds up in the ear canal to the point where it becomes difficult or impossible to wash it away naturally. Earwax is a normal and helpful part of the body's defenses, as it helps clean, coat, and protect the ear canal by trapping dirt and slowing the growth of bacteria. However, excessive earwax buildup can cause discomfort and potential health issues, such as earache, hearing loss, dizziness, and tinnitus. If you suspect you have an earwax blockage, consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and safe removal.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

Symptoms of earwax blockage may include earache, feeling of fullness in the ear, ringing or noises in the ear (tinnitus), hearing loss, dizziness, cough, itchiness in the ear, odor or discharge in the ear, and pain or infection in the ear.

Risk Factors

The risk factors for developing earwax blockage include using cotton swabs or other objects to attempt to remove earwax, which can push the wax deeper into the ear canal instead of removing it. Other risk factors include having a narrow or hairy ear canal, which can make it more difficult for earwax to move out naturally, and having a weakened immune system, which may make it more difficult for the body to fight off infections that can cause earwax buildup. Additionally, certain medical conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and diabetes can also increase the risk of earwax blockage.

Development

Earwax blockage can develop in various ways. The wax in your ears is made by glands in the skin of your outer ear canal. Typically, a small amount of earwax regularly makes its way to the ear opening, where it's washed away or falls out as new wax replaces it. However, if your ears produce too much wax or if earwax isn't cleared well enough, it may build up and block your ear canal. Earwax blockages often occur when people try to remove earwax themselves using cotton swabs or other objects, which can push the wax deeper into the ear instead of removing it. Additionally, using cotton swabs or other items after exposure to water, such as swimming, can also contribute to earwax blockage. Water can cause the earwax to swell, making it more difficult to remove naturally. It's best to leave earwax alone and let it do its job, as it helps clean, coat, and protect your ear canal by trapping dirt and slowing the growth of bacteria. If you have an excess of earwax or it's blocking your ear canal, it's advisable to see a healthcare provider or use an at-home cleaning method, such as softening the wax with baby oil, mineral oil, glycerin, or diluted hydrogen peroxide, and then gently irrigating the ear with warm water using a rubber-bulb syringe.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Triage

You should see a doctor if you have signs and symptoms of earwax blockage, such as earache, feeling of fullness in the ear, ringing or noises in the ear (tinnitus), hearing loss, dizziness, cough, itchiness in the ear, odor or discharge in the ear, or pain or infection in the ear. If earwax blockage has no symptoms, it can sometimes clear on its own. However, earwax removal is most safely done by a healthcare provider, as the ear canal and eardrum are delicate and can be damaged easily. Don't try to remove earwax yourself with cotton swabs or other items if you have had ear surgery, have a hole (perforation) in your eardrum, or are having ear pain or drainage.

Diagnosis

A health care provider can diagnose earwax blockage by looking into the ear using an otoscope, a special tool that lights and magnifies the inner ear. They may use a curet or suction techniques to remove excess wax, or flush it out with a syringe filled with warm water and saline or diluted hydrogen peroxide. Medicated ear drops may also be recommended to soften the wax. If earwax buildup continues, regular cleaning by a health care provider may be necessary. Self-cleaning methods should be avoided, and alternative treatments like ear candling or essential oils are not recommended.

Management and Treatment

Complications

Earwax blockage can lead to several complications if left untreated. Some of these complications may include:

1. Hearing loss: The accumulation of earwax can cause a blockage in the ear canal, leading to a reduction in hearing ability.
2. Tinnitus: Ringing or noises in the ear can be caused by earwax buildup, which can interfere with your hearing and cause discomfort.
3. Dizziness: Earwax blockage can sometimes cause vertigo or a spinning sensation due to the impact on the ear's balance-sensing mechanism.
4. Infection: The buildup of earwax can create a moist environment in the ear canal, which can lead to the growth of bacteria and fungi, resulting in an ear infection.
5. Pain: Pressure and discomfort in the ear can be caused by earwax blockage, which can lead to inflammation and sensitivity.
6. Impaction: Severe earwax blockage can cause an impaction, where the wax is pushed further into the ear canal, making it difficult to remove. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms related to earwax blockage to prevent potential complications.

Prevention

Preventing earwax blockage primarily involves letting your ears clean themselves naturally and avoiding inserting objects like cotton swabs into your ear canal. Here are some tips to help prevent earwax buildup:

1. Let earwax do its job: Earwax serves a purpose in protecting and cleaning your ears. Generally, it will naturally move to the opening of your ear canal where it can be easily removed with a damp cloth or by shaking your head.
2. Avoid using cotton swabs or other objects: Refrain from inserting any objects like cotton swabs, paper clips, or hairpins into your ear canal. These can push the wax further down and cause blockages.
3. Keep your ears dry: Moisture can cause earwax to harden and become more difficult to remove. Use a towel to gently dry your ears after bathing or swimming.
4. Use over-the-counter ear drops: If you experience excessive earwax buildup, you can use over-the-counter ear drops containing hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, or glycerin to help soften the wax. Follow the instructions on the packaging and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
5. Avoid using q-tips or other objects for cleaning: As mentioned earlier, avoid inserting any objects into your ear canal. This includes cotton swabs, which can push wax deeper into the ear and cause blockages. By following these simple guidelines, you can help prevent earwax buildup and related issues. If you experience symptoms of earwax blockage, consult your healthcare provider for advice and assistance.

Home Remedies

Home remedies suggested for earwax blockage include softening the wax with baby oil, mineral oil, glycerin, or diluted hydrogen peroxide, and then gently irrigating the ear canal with warm water using a rubber-bulb syringe. It's important to avoid putting anything into the ear canal, such as cotton swabs, and to seek medical attention if there are signs or symptoms of earwax blockage, as it may signal another condition that needs attention.

Treatment

Treatments for earwax blockage include:

1. Self-care: If you have a mild earwax blockage and no symptoms, you can try using over-the-counter ear drops containing hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide, or other e

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment regarding earwax blockage, you should:

1. Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions: Ask your healthcare provider if there are any dietary or other restrictions you should follow before the appointment.
2. List symptoms and when they began: Make a note of any symptoms you are experiencing, including how long you've had them and what makes them worse or better.
3. List key personal information: Include any major stresses or recent life changes that may be relevant to your earwax blockage.
4. List medications, vitamins, or supplements: Make a list of all the medications, vitamins, or supplements you are currently taking, including doses.
5. Bring medical records: Bring any relevant medical or dental records, including test results, to the appointment.
6. Take a family member or friend: Consider bringing someone along for support and to help you remember information provided during the appointment.
7. Prepare questions: Write down a list of questions to ask your healthcare provider during the appointment, such as the likely causes of your earwax blockage, possible treatment options, and any precautions or lifestyle changes you should make. Remember to share all relevant information with your healthcare provider during the appointment to ensure the best possible care.