Can Ear Wax Cause Hearing Loss?

Noticing that your hearing has become muffled can be worrying. You might find yourself turning the television up, asking people to repeat themselves or feeling as though one or both ears are blocked.

There are many possible reasons for changes in hearing, but one relatively common and treatable cause is a build-up of ear wax.

When enough wax accumulates to block the ear canal, it can prevent sound from travelling efficiently towards the eardrum. This can cause temporary conductive hearing loss, which may make sounds seem quieter or muffled.

The Natural Purpose of Ear Wax

Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a normal part of a healthy ear.

Rather than being something that needs to be constantly removed, wax helps protect and lubricate the ear canal. It traps dust, debris and other particles and helps maintain the natural environment inside the outer ear.

In most people, ear wax gradually moves towards the opening of the ear canal before falling out naturally. Movement of the jaw during activities such as talking and chewing can assist this process.

Sometimes, however, wax doesn't clear effectively and begins to accumulate.

Some people naturally experience more problems with ear wax than others. Narrow or damaged ear canals, excessive hair within the canal and certain skin conditions can increase the likelihood of a build-up. Wearing hearing aids can also make wax accumulation more likely.

Can Impacted Ear Wax Affect Your Hearing?

Yes. If ear wax builds up sufficiently to obstruct the ear canal, it can cause temporary hearing loss.

You may notice that sounds seem muffled or that one ear appears quieter than the other. Some people describe the sensation as similar to having water trapped inside the ear.

Hearing loss isn't the only possible symptom. A significant wax build-up can also cause:

A blocked or full sensation in the ear
Ear discomfort or itching
Ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus
Dizziness or vertigo in some cases
Problems with the performance of hearing aids

If ear wax is responsible for the hearing difficulty, removing the blockage can result in a noticeable improvement. However, it is important not to assume that wax is always the cause.

What If Removing the Wax Doesn't Restore My Hearing?

Ear wax can sometimes mask an underlying hearing problem.

For example, you might have a blocked ear and assume that wax explains why you've gradually been increasing the television volume or struggling with conversations. Once the wax has been removed, you may notice an improvement but still find that your hearing isn't as clear as expected.

This is where checking your hearing can be useful.

At Tranquil Hearing Care, we combine a review of your medical and hearing history with microsuction ear wax removal and a 4-point audiogram as part of our hearing test. This provides a useful baseline and can highlight changes that may need further investigation.

If the results indicate that more detailed testing would be beneficial, we can recommend a comprehensive hearing assessment.

Avoid the Cotton Bud Trap

When an ear feels blocked, it can be tempting to try to remove the wax yourself with a cotton bud.

This can make the problem worse.

Rather than pulling wax out, cotton buds and other objects can push it further into the ear canal. They can also damage the delicate skin inside the canal or, if inserted too deeply, injure the eardrum.

Avoid putting cotton buds, hair grips or other objects inside your ears, even if they feel blocked.

Ear candles and home ear-vacuum devices aren't recommended either.

Can I Use Olive Oil for Ear Wax?

Olive oil ear drops can be used to soften ear wax and may help it clear naturally. A pharmacist can also advise you about suitable wax-softening products and how to use them.

Always follow the instructions provided with the product or advice given by your pharmacist, GP or audiologist.

Ear drops aren't suitable for everyone. In particular, you should seek professional advice before using them if you have or suspect a perforated eardrum, have symptoms of an ear infection or have previously undergone certain types of ear surgery.

If you're unsure, having your ears examined before trying to manage the problem yourself is the safer option.

Microsuction Ear Wax Removal in Hoddesdon

When ear wax isn't clearing naturally or is causing hearing difficulties and discomfort, professional removal may be appropriate.

At Tranquil Hearing Care in Hoddesdon, we specialise in microsuction ear wax removal.

Microsuction is a dry technique that doesn't require water to be flushed into the ear. Our audiologist examines the ear and uses a fine suction device under direct visual guidance to carefully remove the wax.

The procedure is generally quick and well tolerated, although you may hear suction noise and rarely, some people may experience brief discomfort.

Before proceeding, we'll discuss your symptoms and relevant medical history and examine your ears to make sure microsuction is appropriate.

When Hearing Loss Needs Urgent Attention

Although ear wax can cause hearing loss, a sudden loss of hearing should never simply be assumed to be caused by wax.

If you suddenly lose hearing in one or both ears, or your hearing deteriorates rapidly over a few days or weeks, you should seek urgent medical advice through your GP or NHS 111. Sudden hearing loss can sometimes require prompt medical treatment.

You should also seek medical advice if hearing problems are accompanied by significant ear pain, discharge or bleeding, or if symptoms continue after the wax has been removed.