Ear wax is a natural secretion that helps protect our ears. But when it builds up, it can be uncomfortable or even detrimental to our hearing. Most people treat their ear wax build-ups at home, but some popular remedies might do more harm than good. Let's take a closer look at the relationship between ear wax and hearing loss, and how to safely get rid of impacted ear wax.
Removing Ear Wax
For most people, ear wax isn't much of a problem. They clean their ears with a wash cloth and never think twice about waxy build-up. For others, especially allergy-prone individuals, excessive ear wax can lead to painful impactions. When ear wax blocks most of the ear canal,
hearing loss can result. Frequent build-ups can also lead to tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or infections. These infections can also affect a person's hearing, temporarily or permanently.
In their efforts to remove impacted ear wax, some people actually make the condition worse. By inserting cotton swabs or other implements into their ear canal, they push the wax closer to the ear drum. Many people have inadvertently punctured their ear drum this way.
Consult Your Physician for Excessive Ear Wax Buildup
If you're having trouble hearing, feel noticeable pain or a sense of fullness in your ear, or hear a ringing that wasn't there before, you should go see a doctor to check for ear wax impaction. If they do find an excessive amount of ear wax, they will use an otoscope and a small suction tube to remove the blockage. If you need medicine to treat an ear infection, the doctor will also prescribe that.
Ear Wax and Hearing Aids
The presence of ear wax can make hearing aids produce feedback noise. Doctors recommend that hearing aid wearers have a regular check-up and professional ear cleaning every six months.
Ear wax serves a function and doesn't usually present problems. But if you're experiencing recurrent blockages or infections, consult an ear nose and throat specialist or
audiologist for advice.