Can Ear Wax Cause Hearing Loss

Ear wax is a sticky, yellow substance that your ears make. It is also called cerumen. Ear wax helps protect your ears by trapping dirt and dust. But, too much ear wax can cause problems. One of these problems is hearing loss. Let’s learn how ear wax can cause hearing loss, the symptoms to look for, how to treat it, and how to prevent it.

How Does Ear Wax Cause Hearing Loss?

Your ear canal makes ear wax. Normally, ear wax moves out of your ear on its own. Sometimes, ear wax builds up and gets stuck. This can block your ear canal. When the ear canal is blocked, sound cannot pass through. This blockage can cause hearing loss.

Symptoms of Ear Wax Buildup

How do you know if you have too much ear wax? Here are some symptoms:

• Hearing Loss: Your hearing may become muffled or blocked.
• Earache: You may feel pain or discomfort in your ear.
• Fullness: Your ear may feel full or plugged.
• Ringing: You may hear ringing or buzzing sounds in your ear. This is called tinnitus.
• Itching: Your ear may feel itchy or irritated.
• Odor: Your ear may have a bad smell.

If you have any of these symptoms, you might have ear wax buildup. It is important to treat it to prevent further problems.

Treatment for Ear Wax Buildup

If you think you have too much ear wax, here are some ways to treat it:

• Ear Drops: You can use ear drops to soften the wax. This helps it come out on its own. You can buy ear drops at the store or get them from a doctor.
• Warm Water: Use a bulb syringe to gently flush your ear with warm water. Do this over a sink or in the shower.
• Seek Professional Help: If ear drops and warm water do not work, see an audiologist. An audiologist can remove the ear wax safely. They might use a special tool, water, or suction to do this.

Do not use cotton swabs, bobby pins, or other objects to clean your ears. These can push the wax deeper and cause more problems.

Preventing Ear Wax Buildup

Here are some tips to prevent ear wax buildup:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your ears gently with a damp cloth. Do not put anything into your ear canal.
• Ear Drops: If you have a lot of ear wax, use ear drops regularly. This helps keep the wax soft and prevents buildup.

If you often have ear wax problems, see an audiologist. 

When to See a Doctor

If you have ear wax buildup that does not go away, see an audiologist. Also, see an audiologist if you have severe symptoms like:

• Severe Hearing Loss: If you suddenly cannot hear well, see a doctor right away.
• Severe Pain: If your ear hurts a lot, see a doctor.
• Drainage: If fluid or pus comes out of your ear, see a doctor.
• Dizziness: If you feel dizzy or lose your balance, see a doctor.

Earwax Removal in Longmont, CO

Ear wax is important for protecting your ears, but too much can cause problems. Ear wax buildup can lead to hearing loss, pain, and other symptoms. 

If you think you have too much ear wax, use ear drops or warm water to treat it. If that does not help, see an audiologist. 

Longmont Hearing and Tinnitus Center has audiologists providing earwax removal in Longmont, CO. 

Contact us today to schedule an appointment!