Is It Just a Bit of Wax? 5 Signs You Need a Professional's Help with Ear Wax Removal

We all produce ear wax, and for the most part, it's a completely natural and healthy process. This substance, known as cerumen, plays a vital role in protecting our ears from dust, debris, and bacteria. Usually, our ears are self-cleaning, and the wax works its way out on its own. However, sometimes this process doesn't work as it should, leading to a build-up that can cause a range of uncomfortable and even distressing symptoms.

If you're experiencing any of the following, it might be a sign that you need to have your ear wax professionally removed.

1. Muffled Hearing or Hearing Loss

One of the most common signs of a significant ear wax build-up is a noticeable change in your hearing. Sounds may seem muffled, as if you're wearing earplugs. This can happen gradually or quite suddenly and can affect one or both ears. If you find yourself turning up the volume on the television or struggling to follow conversations, impacted ear wax could be the culprit.

2. A Feeling of Fullness or Blockage in the Ear

Many people with excess ear wax report a persistent feeling of fullness or pressure in their ears. This sensation can be annoying and distracting, and it's a clear indicator that something is obstructing your ear canal.

3. Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)

Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present. For many, this manifests as a ringing, buzzing, hissing, or whistling sound. While tinnitus can have various causes, it is a common symptom of ear wax build-up. The pressure from the impacted wax on the eardrum can trigger these phantom noises. For some, professional ear wax removal can provide significant relief from tinnitus.

4. Dizziness or a Loss of Balance

Our ears play a crucial role in maintaining our sense of balance. When ear wax becomes deeply impacted, it can affect the delicate structures within the ear, leading to feelings of dizziness, light-headedness, or even vertigo – the sensation that you or your surroundings are spinning.

5. Earache or Discomfort

While not always present, a dull ache or even sharp pain in the ear can be a sign of ear wax build-up. This discomfort can be caused by the pressure of the wax on the ear canal and eardrum. It's important not to ignore ear pain, as it can also be a sign of an ear infection, which can sometimes be a complication of untreated impacted wax.

Why You Shouldn't Ignore the Signs

Leaving impacted ear wax untreated can lead to worsening symptoms and, in some cases, can result in ear infections. It's also vital to never attempt to remove ear wax yourself with cotton buds, hairpins, or any other objects. Doing so can push the wax deeper into the ear canal, making the problem worse and potentially causing serious damage to your eardrum.

The Professional Solution

If any of these signs sound familiar, the safest and most effective solution is to seek professional ear wax removal from a qualified audiologist. At Hearco, we use gentle and effective techniques to safely remove excess ear wax, providing relief from your symptoms and protecting the health of your ears.

To learn more, visit: https://www.hearco.co.uk/ear-wax-removal

Or feel free to book in today: https://hearco.setmore.com