A blocked ear caused by a earwax plug is annoying: worse hearing, pressure or even a Squeak in your ear. In this article we explain how a wax plug is formed, what symptoms are involved and why it's often better to have it professionally removed. Read on for safe tips and when to seek immediate help.
What is earwax and what does it do?
Earwax Earwax (also called cerumen) is a natural secretion of your ear and has a protective function: it keeps dirt and bacteria out and keeps the skin of the ear canal supple. This prevents ear infections. Normally, your ear transports old earwax It comes out naturally through movements such as chewing and talking. This old wax can then be easily removed during a shower.
How does an earwax plug form?
There are several reasons why a earwax plug can occur. Below are the most common ones clearly described.
Imbalance between production and removal
A earwax plug It occurs when the natural drainage of earwax earwax gets disrupted. More earwax is then produced than the ear itself can drain. The earwax accumulates, hardens and can eventually block (partially or completely) the ear canal.
Common causes
There are a number of other factors that increase the likelihood of a earwax plug enlarge:
- Using cotton swabs (they push wax deeper into the ear).
- Earplugs, hearing protection or hearing aids.
- Narrow or curved ear canals
- Age: The older you get, the drier and harder your earwax becomes.
- Excessive earwax production.
This explains why some people are more likely to suffer from a earwax plug than others.
Symptoms of a wax plug
Symptoms usually occur gradually and vary from person to person. Common symptoms are:
- Impaired hearing or a dull feeling.
- Earache Or pressure in the ear.
- A Squeak in your ear.
- Noise in your ear.
- Dizziness.
- Tinnitus.
In some cases, a long-term blockage can even cause an ear infection due to earwax.
When should you see a specialist? The alarm signals
Contact a specialist or audiologist if you suffer from:
- Persistent or increasing earache.
- Suddenly hearing loss To one ear.
- Severe dizziness.
- Moisture, pus or blood from the ear.
- Fever combined with ear symptoms.
In these cases earwax removal by a professional essential.
How is a wax plug professionally removed?
There are several safe methods, depending on the situation: suction technique (microsuction), mechanical removal with curette or (in some cases) spraying/irrigation.
Spraying out earwax can be effective, but requires care and a good view of the eardrum; misuse carries risks.
Many parties (including Audinc) use modern suction techniques and microscopes, so treatment is safe and painless. Do you suffer from earwax And would you like a make an appointment To have it professionally removed? Contact Audinc!
Above, a "blocked ear canal" and one after an extraction treatment.
How to remove wax yourself: what is and what is not allowed
When to remove earwax If you want to remove wax, it is important to do so safely. Your ears are fragile and doing the wrong thing can actually cause more problems.
What is allowed
You should only earwax removal It can be removed from the outside of the ear. You can do this gently with a cloth or tissue, without sticking anything in the ear canal. In addition, you may want to use special ear drops to remove the soften earwax. These drops help loosen the wax, often allowing it to come out on its own.
What absolutely not to do:
Never stick cotton swabs deep into your ear. Although this seems harmless, you are pushing the earwax often further in. Also, do not use hairpins, paper clips or other objects to remove wax. This can damage the ear canal or even hit the eardrum. Hard flushing without medical advice is also not recommended, as it may cause pain or damage.
How to prevent a wax plug?
You can reduce the risk of a earwax plug reduced by:
- No cotton swabs to use.
- Keeping earplugs and hearing aids clean.
- Periodically preventive earwax removal, So it won't build up into an earwax plug.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does blowing out your ear hurt?
Not usually. Spraying out earwax may cause a strange or slightly pressing sensation, but it should not hurt. If it hurts, the treatment is stopped immediately. This method is not suitable for everyone; therefore, professional assessment is important.
Does oil help against a wax plug?
Oil can help soften earwax, but often does not completely dissolve an existing earwax plug. It may even temporarily worsen symptoms. Do symptoms persist after you use oil? If so, professional removal of your earwax is the safest choice.
