Earwax Removal

Cerumen, or what we know as “earwax,” is a protective secretion produced by small glands within the ear canal. This sticky substance helps to trap dust, dirt, and other particles, protecting the inner ear and eardrum. For most, dirty earwax is displaced and moved out of the ear by the creation of new cerumen, but for some, the earwax accumulates instead, eventually hardening and transforming into a blockage.

Common Causes of Earwax Buildup:

• Overproduction: Some people are naturally predisposed to produce more earwax, increasing their chances of buildup.
• Improper Cleaning: Common, incorrect methods of cleaning (like using Q-tips®) can often push earwax further into the canal, sometimes compacting and creating a blockage instead of clearing it.
• Inefficient Clearing: As we age, the shape of our ears changes, which can sometimes cause earwax not to clear as efficiently as it once did, causing a buildup and eventual blockage.

The best way to avoid hearing loss, increased risk of disease, and long-term damage is to recognize the symptoms of an earwax blockage before they occur.

Signs of Earwax Blockage

• Hearing Loss: One of the most prominent blockage symptoms is temporary hearing loss.
• Earache: For many, earwax blockage can cause persistent pain or ache within the ear.
• “Fullness” in the Ear: Another prominent symptom is the physical feeling of fullness or heaviness within the ear.
• Tinnitus: Constant ringing or buzzing in the ears can also suggest wax buildup, though our experts can diagnose a root cause and offer appropriate treatment.

As with other blockages in the body, earwax buildup can lead to more severe issues, including infections, pain, and fever, if left untreated.

At Pinnacle ENT, our experienced ENT specialists will carefully evaluate and assess the severity of your condition and recommend the best treatment.

Earwax Removal Methods:

• Suction: In some cases, a specialized tool may be used to suction out the earwax.
• Irrigation: This method uses warm water to flush the wax from the ear canal. A water pick may also sometimes be used to clear blockages.
• Curet: The curet method uses a specialized tool with a curved end to pick and pull the blockage from the ear canal gently.

Regardless of which method is used to clear your blockage, our physicians will explain each available treatment option to you so you better understand the process.

While seeking the help of a professional will yield the best results, mild earwax blockages can be carefully removed at home.

Steps for Safe At-Home Earwax Removal

1. Soften the Wax: To soften hardened earwax, use an eyedropper to apply a few drops of baby oil, mineral oil, or hydrogen peroxide into the ear.
2. Gentle Flushing: After softening the wax, warm water can be squirted gently into the ear canal.
3. Drain and Dry: If all the water has drained from the ear canal, repeat, if necessary, or dry the area thoroughly.

Please Note: If you have ear tubes, a perforation in your eardrum, or are experiencing pain, contact a medical professional before attempting any at-home removal to avoid worsening your condition.