Earwax usually clears on its own, but it can pack into the ear canal and cause muffled hearing, fullness, or hearing aid problems. Adults should avoid cotton swabs and have their ears checked by a provider when symptoms last more than a few days, when they wear hearing aids, or when they have pain, drainage, or a history of eardrum problems.
Earwax buildup happens when wax collects faster than the ear can clear it, sometimes packing tightly in the canal. Most people never need help with earwax, but adults with muffled hearing, ear fullness, or hearing aids that stop working well often have impacted wax that a provider can check and remove safely.
Why earwax builds up
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural cleaner. It traps dust, keeps the ear canal skin from drying out, and normally works its way out as you chew and talk. Buildup becomes more likely when:
- You use cotton swabs, which push wax deeper instead of removing it
- You wear hearing aids or earbuds that block the natural flow of wax
- Your ear canals are narrow or have extra hair
- You are older, since wax tends to become drier and harder with age
Signs of impacted earwax
Packed earwax can cause:
- Muffled hearing in one or both ears
- A plugged or full feeling
- Ringing in the ear
- Itching or mild discomfort
- Hearing aids that whistle, sound weak, or need frequent cleaning
These symptoms can have other causes, such as fluid behind the eardrum or an infection. A quick look with a lighted scope tells your provider whether wax is the problem.
What to avoid at home
Many home methods do more harm than good. It is best not to put cotton swabs, bobby pins, or other objects into the ear canal. Ear candling is not a safe or effective treatment. Ask your provider before using drops or home irrigation kits, especially if you have ever had a hole in your eardrum, ear tubes, or ear surgery.
Cleaning the outer ear with a washcloth is usually all the care healthy ears need.
When to have earwax removed by a provider
Schedule a visit when:
- Muffled hearing or fullness lasts more than a few days
- You wear hearing aids and notice changes in how they work
- You have had eardrum problems, ear tubes, or ear surgery
- Home care has not helped
At our Trinity office, earwax removal starts with an ear exam. Your provider then removes the wax with gentle warm water irrigation or with small instruments, depending on what is safest for your ears, and checks the canal again afterward.
When symptoms need prompt care
Get prompt care for ear pain with fever, drainage or bleeding from the ear, dizziness, or a sudden change in hearing. Sudden hearing loss in one ear should be evaluated right away. Call 911 for sudden hearing loss with facial drooping, weakness, or trouble speaking.
Getting care in Trinity
Earwax removal is offered at our Trinity primary care office at 3633 Little Rd, Suite 103, and at our Hudson office. Contact the office to confirm the appropriate location for your appointment. New patients age 18 and older are welcome. Appointment availability is determined by the office. Call (727) 997-1635 or request an appointment online. Hearing is also reviewed during the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit, a good time to mention ear fullness or hearing aid trouble.
Frequently asked questions
Is it bad to clean your ears with cotton swabs?
Cotton swabs tend to push wax deeper and can irritate or injure the ear canal. Clean only the outer ear with a washcloth.
Can earwax cause dizziness?
Packed earwax occasionally causes mild dizziness, but dizziness has many other causes. Have it checked, and seek prompt care if it is severe or comes with hearing loss.
How often should hearing aid users have their ears checked?
Many hearing aid users benefit from regular ear checks, since devices can trap wax. Your provider can suggest a schedule that fits your ears.
This content is provided for general educational information and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Medical needs and treatment options vary from person to person. If you have questions about your health or whether a service may be appropriate for you, contact Internal Medicine MD to speak with a member of the care team or schedule an appointment with a qualified medical provider. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek emergency medical care.
