An audiologist is warning people to stay clear of cotton buds - which can cost as little as 48p - to remove earwax. We've all probably used them to do just that, but if you still do, you need to stop.
However if you don't clean your ears and you have too much ear wax, it can cause blockages which can lead to a host of annoying symptoms. So how can you remove it safely?
Blockages cause a whole host of symptoms. However, it's important to remember that earwax isn't all bad and it plays a crucial role in trapping dirt, dust, and bacteria. But it's vital to know the signs and when to seek professional help.
What are the symptoms of an earwax blockage?
Symptoms can vary from slight discomfort to major disruption of daily activities, so it’s important to know what to look for.
“These include a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, itching or irritation within the ear canal, discomfort and sometimes earache,” Gordon Harrison, chief audiologist at Specsavers. “Other signs include temporary hearing loss or muffled hearing, dizziness in severe cases, persistent ringing and infections caused by the trapping of bacteria or moisture behind the blockage.”
What causes earwax blockages?
"Earwax blockages occur when the natural process of earwax expulsion is disrupted or when wax is produced in excessive amounts," explains Harrison.
"Frequent use of in-ear devices, such as headphones, can push earwax deeper into the canal, preventing its natural movement out of the ear. Skin conditions around the ear and excessive hair in the ear can also increase the likelihood of blockages."
The frequent use of cotton buds can also cause problems. "Using Q-Tips or putting your fingers in your ear is a major cause of earwax blockages," highlights Hannah Samuels, audiologist at Boots Hearingcare.
"Putting a Q-tip down your ear canal pushes wax around and down, which causes further build-up and makes it more difficult to remove."
How can earwax blockages affect my hearing and health?
"Any obstructions in the ear canal or eardrum can cause temporary hearing loss or make sounds seem muffled, which can make it difficult to engage in conversations and everyday life," explains Harrison.
"Persistent blockages can also irritate the ear, potentially worsening symptoms like tinnitus or dizziness and over time, untreated blockages could harm the delicate structures of the ear canal and eardrum, leading to more serious complications in future."
Earwax blockages in older adults
As you get older, your earwax naturally becomes drier, which makes your ears harder to clean themselves as effectively, Samuels points out. People with more hairy ear canals are also more susceptible to blockages.
Harrison agreed and shared: "Those who use hearing devices or in-ear headphones may also be more prone to ear wax build-up. And those who commonly suffer from ear infections should look out for altered earwax consistency due to an increased likelihood of blockages," he warns.
Should I see a GP for earwax blockages?
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms like hearing loss, ear pain, or ringing in the ears, it’s important to consult a medical professional for assistance.
“If the build-up of wax is severe, an audiologist or healthcare provider will be able to determine the most suitable approach and can administer treatment, which may include ear irrigation, microsuction, or manual removal,” says Samuels.
How can I remove earwax safely?
“We recommend professional earwax removal to prioritise safety and effectiveness as at-home methods can often make problems worse,” says Harrison. “Microsuction is usually the preferred method for its precision and minimal risk.
“A suction device gently removes the wax while the audiologist monitors the procedure using a microscope, ensuring no contact with the eardrum or sensitive skin of the canal.
“Manual removal may be recommended for softer wax or minor blockages and involves the use of specialist tools to carefully extract the wax. For hard or impacted wax, we advise people to use oil-based drops for several days prior to their appointment to soften the wax.”
Can I prevent earwax blockages?
“Firstly, it’s important to avoid putting anything into your ears, such as cotton buds, hairpins, or other objects,” advises Harrison. “These can push the earwax deeper into the canal, making blockages more likely.”
It’s also essential to maintain cleanliness in the outer part of your ear. “Using a warm flannel to gently wipe the outside of your ears is sufficient to clear away any excess wax or debris,” says Harrison. “This ensures hygiene without interfering with the ear canal itself."
