Earwax is an important part of ear health and has many functions.
Ear wax (cerumen) is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It helps:
- Protect your ears by trapping foreign particles such as dust, dirt, and bacteria
- Keep your ears lubricated and healthy
- Clean itself out naturally as it moves toward the outer ear
What Not to Do
🚫 Do not use cotton swabs (Q-tips) – They can push wax deeper and cause impaction or injury.
🚫 Avoid using foreign objects like hairpins, pens, or earbuds to clean your ears.
🚫 Do not use ear candles. Ear candling is not a safe or effective method for earwax removal.
If you put objects like cotton buds into your ears, you can accidentally push the wax deeper, stopping it from coming out naturally. This can lead to a buildup or blockage.
Wax buildup is also more likely if:
- You have narrow ear canals
- You naturally produce a lot of wax
- You regularly use hearing aids, earplugs, or earphones, which can stop wax from moving out
Earwax build up can lead to following symptoms:
- Fullness or blocked sensation
- Tinnitus
- Hearing loss
- Pain or discomfort
- Itching
The safest and most effective way to remove a buildup of earwax is to see a trained healthcare professional. A list of recommended earwax removal services is provided below.
Professional Earwax Removal Services
Click the services below to visit their website:
