Can Ear Wax Cause Hearing Loss? Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Ear wax, also called cerumen, is a natural substance your body makes to protect your ears. It keeps dirt, bacteria, and other harmful things from getting deep into your ear canal. While ear wax is helpful, too much of it can sometimes cause problems, like hearing loss. 

Let’s explore how ear wax can affect your hearing, the symptoms to watch for, how to treat it, and how to prevent issues in the future.

Can Ear Wax Cause Hearing Loss?

Yes, it can. When ear wax builds up and hardens, it can block sound from reaching your eardrum. This is called ear wax impaction. It doesn’t mean you’re losing your hearing permanently—it’s just a temporary problem caused by the blockage. Once the wax is removed, your hearing usually returns to normal.

Ontario Hearing Center provides professional ear wax removal in Rochester, NY.

Symptoms of Ear Wax Build-Up

It’s important to know the signs of too much ear wax so you can take action early. Common symptoms include:

• Muffled or reduced hearing.
• A feeling of fullness in the ear.
• Earache or discomfort.
• Itching or irritation inside the ear.
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
• Dizziness in severe cases.

If you have any of these symptoms, especially hearing loss, it’s a good idea to check if ear wax is the cause.

Our Rochester, NY audiologists can check your ears and provide the best hearing care with professionalism and compassion.

How to Treat Ear Wax Build-Up

If you think ear wax is causing your hearing problem, don’t worry—there are safe ways to fix it.

1. Over-the-Counter Ear Drops

You can buy special ear drops at the pharmacy to soften the wax. These drops break the wax down so it can come out naturally.

2. Warm Water Irrigation

Some people use a bulb syringe to gently rinse their ears with warm water. This can flush out soft wax. Be careful not to use too much force, as it could hurt your ear.

3. Visit a Doctor or Audiologist

If home remedies don’t work, or if you’re unsure, it’s best to see an audiologist. Ontario Hearing Center audiologists have special tools to safely remove ear wax without hurting your ear. Avoid using cotton swabs, bobby pins, or other objects to clean your ears, as these can push the wax deeper or damage your ear.

How to Prevent Ear Wax Problems

Prevention is key to avoiding hearing loss caused by ear wax. Here are a few simple tips:

• Don’t Overclean: Cleaning your ears too often can irritate them and make your body produce more wax. Your ears usually clean themselves naturally.
• Avoid Cotton Swabs: Using cotton swabs inside your ear can push wax further in, creating a blockage.
• Use Earplugs or Hearing Protection: If you work in dusty or dirty environments, earplugs can keep dirt and debris out of your ears.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water can help keep ear wax soft and less likely to build up.
• Regular Checkups: If you’re prone to ear wax issues, see your audiologist regularly for a checkup.

When to See a Doctor

While most ear wax problems are easy to treat, sometimes it’s best to get professional help. Call your doctor if you experience:

• Severe pain in your ear.
• Hearing loss that doesn’t improve.
• Discharge or a bad smell coming from your ear.
• Persistent dizziness or ringing in your ears.

A doctor can check your ears and rule out other causes for your symptoms, like an ear infection.

Ear Wax Removal in Rochester, NY

Ear wax is a helpful part of your body’s natural defense system, but too much of it can sometimes cause problems, including temporary hearing loss. Knowing the symptoms, treatment options, and prevention tips can help you keep your ears healthy and your hearing clear. 

If you ever feel unsure, don’t hesitate to talk to an audiologist. 

Ontario Hearing Center connects you to expert audiologists in Rochester, NY. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at our Brighton, NY clinic.