Earwax is a natural substance produced by the glands in your ear canal, and it plays an essential role in protecting the ear from dirt, bacteria, and other harmful particles. For most people, earwax clears naturally on its own and doesn’t require any intervention. However, in some cases, earwax can accumulate and become impacted, leading to discomfort and even hearing loss.
While there are many ways to manage earwax buildup at home, there are certain situations where you should seek professional help. In this blog, we’ll explore the signs that indicate you might need professional earwax removal and why it’s important to get your ears checked by a healthcare provider.

Why Is Earwax Removal Important?
Before we get into the signs, let’s understand why earwax removal might be necessary:
• Prevent Infection: Excessive earwax can trap bacteria, leading to ear infections.
• Avoid Hearing Problems: Impacted earwax can cause temporary hearing loss or a feeling of fullness in the ear.
• Prevent Damage: Attempting to clean your ears improperly can push wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to injury or further blockage.
It’s essential to approach earwax removal with care to prevent any damage to the ear, and that’s where professional earwax removal comes in.
Signs You Might Need Professional Earwax Removal
1. You’re Experiencing Hearing Loss or Muffled Hearing
One of the most common signs of earwax buildup is hearing loss. If you notice that sounds seem muffled or you’re struggling to hear people clearly, this could indicate that earwax is blocking the ear canal. Impacted earwax can obstruct the passage of sound to the eardrum, leading to temporary hearing difficulties.
• What to do: If you experience muffled hearing, it’s a good idea to see an audiologist. They can check for earwax buildup and safely remove it if necessary.

2. You Feel Fullness or Pressure in Your Ear
Feeling a sensation of fullness or pressure in your ear can be a sign that earwax is accumulating inside your ear canal. This sensation is often accompanied by discomfort or a slight blockage. If the feeling persists, it’s best to consult with a professional to have your ears examined.
• What to do: Don’t attempt to remove the earwax with cotton swabs or other objects. Instead, see a healthcare professional who can evaluate the situation and perform a safe earwax removal procedure.
3. You Experience Ear Pain or Discomfort
If you begin to feel pain, discomfort, or a sense of pressure in your ear, it could be a result of impacted earwax pressing against the ear canal. This can sometimes lead to inflammation or infection, especially if the earwax is impacted deep inside the ear.
• What to do: Persistent pain is a sign that earwax may have become impacted, and you should schedule an appointment with a professional for removal. They will assess the situation and ensure there is no underlying infection.

4. You Notice Drainage or Fluid Coming From Your Ear
Any form of drainage or fluid coming from your ear is a sign that there may be a problem in the ear canal. This could indicate an ear infection, or it could be caused by a blockage of earwax that is trapping moisture inside the ear. In either case, it’s essential to have the ear examined by a professional.
• What to do: If you notice unusual drainage or any discharge, especially if it’s accompanied by an odor or blood, seek medical attention right away. A professional can remove the wax and check for any infection or other issues.
5. You Have Ringing in Your Ears (Tinnitus)
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is a common symptom of earwax buildup. When earwax blocks the ear canal, it can cause pressure that triggers the sensation of ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ears. This is often an indication that earwax is impacting the ear and affecting hearing.
• What to do: If tinnitus becomes persistent or bothersome, it’s important to have your earwax professionally removed to rule out any underlying causes and restore normal ear function.

6. You’ve Attempted Home Remedies Without Success
Many people try home remedies, such as over-the-counter ear drops or irrigating their ears with warm water, in an attempt to clear earwax buildup. However, if these methods haven’t worked or if they’ve caused discomfort, it’s time to see a professional.
• What to do: Stop attempting further home treatments and schedule a visit to an audiologist or ENT specialist. They can use specialised tools to remove the earwax safely without causing harm to the ear canal.
7. You Have a History of Ear Problems or Medical Conditions
If you have a history of ear infections, eardrum perforations, or other ear conditions, you may be at a higher risk of complications from earwax buildup. People with hearing aids or certain ear anatomy may also be more prone to impacted earwax. In such cases, regular professional earwax removal may be necessary.
• What to do: Inform your healthcare provider of your medical history. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s best to have your ears regularly checked by a professional.
8. You’re Using Hearing Aids or Other Ear Devices
Individuals who wear hearing aids, earplugs, or other ear devices are more prone to earwax buildup, as these devices can push earwax deeper into the ear canal. If you wear hearing aids and notice any discomfort, hearing loss, or blockage, it may be due to earwax accumulation.
• What to do: Schedule an appointment with your audiologist to have your ears professionally cleaned. Regular cleaning and maintenance of both your ears and hearing aids will help keep your hearing experience optimal.

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