Earwax is a normal and protective substance that helps keep the ear canal healthy. In most people, the ears are self-cleaning, and wax naturally moves out of the ear canal over time.
However, when earwax builds up or becomes impacted, it can cause symptoms such as ear blockage, discomfort, itch, discharge, or reduced hearing. In such cases, professional earwax removal may be appropriate.
When should earwax be removed?
Earwax removal may be considered if you experience:
- A blocked or full sensation in the ear
- Reduced or muffled hearing
- Ear discomfort, itch, or discharge
- Symptoms that worsen after swimming or showering
- Difficulty using hearing aids or earphones due to wax blockage
Not all visible earwax requires removal. An assessment helps determine whether wax is causing symptoms or if it can be safely left alone.
Why over-cleaning the ears can cause problems
The outer two-thirds of the ear canal naturally produces earwax and has a self-cleaning mechanism that moves wax outward over one to two weeks. Earwax acts as a protective barrier, similar to how oil protects the skin.
Using cotton buds or ear-digging tools may:
- Push wax deeper into the ear canal
- Strip away protective skin layers
- Cause scratches or injury to the ear canal
- Increase the risk of infection, itch, or discharge
- Increase the risk of eardrum perforation if inserted too deeply
These factors can worsen blockage and lead to a cycle of repeated irritation and digging.
What causes earwax impaction?
Some individuals naturally produce more earwax than others. Wax impaction may also occur when:
- Ear canals are narrow or curved
- Wax swells suddenly after water exposure
- Hearing aids or earphones push wax deeper into the canal
- Skin conditions affect the ear canal lining
In rarer conditions such as keratosis obturans, abnormal skin and debris accumulate over time and may cause widening or erosion of the ear canal if untreated.
How earwax is safely removed
When earwax removal is needed, it is performed using microscopic instruments under direct visualisation, allowing for precision and safety.
This approach:
- Minimises discomfort
- Reduces the risk of ear canal or eardrum injury
- Allows careful removal even in narrow or sensitive ear canals
Earwax removal can be safely performed in adults, children, and even infants when indicated.
Are ear drops or ear candling safe?
Over-the-counter ear drops may help soften small amounts of wax. However, when wax is more impacted, drops may worsen the blockage by causing the wax to swell.
Ear candling is not recommended. It can be dangerous and has been associated with:
- Burns to the ear canal
- Eardrum injury
- Increased risk of infection
An ENT assessment helps determine the safest and most appropriate method of wax removal.
Earwax removal for children
Children may also experience earwax impaction, particularly if ear canals are small or if symptoms such as reduced hearing or discomfort are present. Professional removal under visual guidance helps ensure safety and comfort.
When should I see an ENT specialist?
You may consider seeing an ENT specialist if ear blockage, discomfort, or hearing changes persist despite avoiding ear digging or using simple measures. Assessment helps determine whether earwax or another ear condition is responsible.
Common questions about earwax removal
Is it safe to clean my ears with cotton buds?
Cotton buds are not recommended for ear cleaning. They often push wax deeper into the ear canal and can irritate the skin or injure the eardrum, which may worsen blockage or cause infection.
How do I know if earwax is causing my hearing problem?
Earwax may be responsible if hearing becomes muffled, blocked, or suddenly worse, especially after showering or swimming. An examination helps confirm whether wax or another ear condition is the cause.
Can ear wax removal be painful?
When performed under direct visualisation using appropriate instruments, earwax removal is generally well tolerated. Some people may experience mild discomfort, but significant pain is uncommon.
Is earwax removal safe for children?
Yes. Ear wax removal can be safely performed in children when indicated, using gentle techniques and visual guidance to minimise discomfort and reduce the risk of injury.
Book an Appointment
If you have concerns about ear blockage or hearing changes, an ENT assessment can determine whether earwax removal is needed and how it can be done safely.
Book an appointment for earwax removal assessment and care.
