The Ear Nurses | Blog
Ear Wax Buildup and Blockage: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment can be frustrating for many people, but understanding what ear wax is and how it works is important. Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It plays a crucial role in protecting the ear from dirt, dust, and bacteria. However, when ear wax accumulates excessively, it can lead to blockages, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of ear infections. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and treatments for ear wax buildup and blockages, as well as tips for maintaining optimal ear health.
Ear wax Buildup and Blockage: What Causes the Buildup?
Ear wax plays a crucial role in protecting the ear canal, but when it accumulates, it can cause a blockage. Several factors can contribute to excessive ear wax buildup, including:
- Narrow or unusually shaped ear canals
- Overproduction of ear wax
- Frequent use of earplugs or hearing aids
- Inserting objects like cotton swabs into the ear
In some cases, the natural cleaning process of the ear is disrupted, causing wax to build up and not exit the ear as it should.
Ear wax Buildup and Blockage: Symptoms of Ear Wax Blockage
Excess ear wax can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- Earache or itching
- Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
- Hearing loss or muffled sounds
- Dizziness or balance issues
If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be time to seek help from The Ear Nurses to have the ear wax safely removed.
Ear wax Build-up and Blockage: Diagnosis of Ear Wax Blockage
To diagnose ear wax buildup, The Ear Nurses will carefully examine your ear using a tool called an binouclar glassess which provides magnification and lighting to inspect the ear canal. This allows for a proper assessment of the ear’s condition and to determine if ear wax is causing any health issues.
Ear Wax Removal Treatment
When ear wax becomes impacted, professional removal may be necessary. Common methods for removing excess ear wax include:
- Ear Curette: A small, curved tool that removes wax safely from the ear.
- Suction Techniques: A vacuum method that gently removes ear wax under direct observation.
- Ear Irrigation: Flushing the ear with warm water and saline or diluted hydrogen peroxide to clear the wax. Not considered as efficient for problematic ear wax blockages due to the high risk of ear infections.
- Medicated Ear Drops: Over-the-counter products such as carbamide peroxide help soften ear wax to make it easier to remove. Olive oil is considered the most beneficial for softening ear wax blockages.
If ear wax buildup persists, The Ear Nurses may suggest regular visits for professional cleaning or the use of softening agents like olive for 2 night prior to the appointment.
Self-Care and Preventing Ear Wax Buildup
While some over-the-counter products such as irrigation kits may be available, they might not be as effective and could potentially be harmful. The best way to manage ear wax buildup is by seeking help from The Ear Nurses. If you’re prone to blockages, we can guide you on proper home care methods, such as using ear drops or softening agents.
It is important to avoid inserting objects such as cotton swabs, hairpins, or paper clips into your ear, as these can push wax deeper into the canal and potentially cause injury or worsen the blockage.
Alternative Medicine and Myths
Some people turn to alternative methods like ear candling or essential oils to remove ear wax. However, these methods are not effective and can be harmful. Ear candling, which involves using a lit candle to draw out ear wax, has been shown to be ineffective and may result in burns or injuries. Similarly, essential oils like tea tree oil or garlic oil are not proven to be safe or effective for ear wax removal. Always consult The Ear Nurses before trying any alternative treatments.
When to See The Ear Nurses at Crystal Clear Ears Melbourne
If you experience persistent discomfort, hearing loss, or other symptoms of ear wax buildup, it is important to contact The Ear Nurses. In rare cases, we may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for further treatment.
Before your visit, it’s helpful to make a list of symptoms or questions, such as:
- How long have you been experiencing ear-related symptoms?
- Have you had ear drainage or infections previously?
- Do your symptoms occur constantly or intermittently?

Conclusion
Ear wax is a natural and protective substance for ear health, but excessive buildup can lead to discomfort and potential infections. If you’re experiencing symptoms like earache, hearing loss, or dizziness, it’s important to seek professional help from The Ear Nurses for proper ear wax removal and management. Regular check-ups and ear care practices can help you maintain healthy ears and avoid complications.
For more information or to book an appointment, contact The Ear Nurses today! We are here to assist you with ear wax removal and to help you maintain optimal ear health.
Resources:
- Healthdirect Australia: Information on ear wax and ear health management.
- Safer Care Victoria: Guidelines on ear wax management and removal.
- The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP): Information on ear health and care.