Earwax is a natural substance that the body produces to keep the inner ear canal lubricated and protect the eardrum from dust, dirt, and other foreign objects. Normally, earwax is produced in small amounts and naturally moves out of the ear canal on its own. However, for some people, earwax can build up and cause ear wax blockage, which may result in discomfort or even loss of hearing.

Symptoms of ear wax blockage may include earache, difficulty hearing, ringing in the ears, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention from an ear and hearing healthcare professional. They can examine your ears and determine if ear wax blockage is the cause of the problem.

There are several things you can do to help prevent ear wax buildup and remove excess earwax if necessary. One of the most important things is to avoid putting anything in your ears, including cotton swabs or Q-tips. These can push earwax further into the ear canal, making the problem worse. Instead, try gently wiping the outer ear with a washcloth.

Another way to prevent earwax buildup is to keep your ears dry. Moisture can cause earwax to build up faster. After swimming or showering, gently dry your ears with a towel or use a hairdryer on the lowest setting.

If you do need to remove excess earwax, it is important to do so safely. Never use a sharp object such as a pin or a toothpick to try to remove earwax. This can puncture the eardrum and cause permanent damage. Instead, try an over-the-counter earwax removal kit. These typically contain drops that soften the earwax so that it is easier to remove.

If you prefer a natural approach, you can try using olive oil or mineral oil to soften the earwax. Simply tilt your head to one side and put a few drops of oil into your ear. Stay in that position for a few minutes, and then tilt your head to the other side to let the oil and earwax drain out.

In some cases, however, ear wax blockage may be too severe to be treated at home. If this is the case, an ear and hearing healthcare professional can remove the earwax safely. They may use a small, curved instrument to scoop out the earwax or use suction to remove it.

In rare cases, a buildup of earwax may lead to complications such as an ear infection or hearing loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away. It is important to never try to remove earwax yourself if you have an ear infection or other ear problem, as this can make the problem worse.

Earwax is a natural substance that the body produces to protect the inner ear. However, for some people, earwax can build up and cause ear wax blockage. To prevent this from happening, it is important to avoid putting anything in your ears and keep them dry. If you do need to remove excess earwax, do so safely by using an over-the-counter earwax removal kit or by seeing an ear and hearing healthcare professional. With proper care and attention, you can help ensure that your ears stay healthy and free from ear wax blockage.