Ear wax is a naturally occurring substance in the ears. Ear wax cleans, lubricates and protects the lining of the ear by trapping dirt and repelling water.  It is slightly acidic and has antibacterial properties.  Without ear wax, the skin inside your ear would become dry, cracked, infected or waterlogged and sore.

The amount and type of ear wax produced is genetically determined just like hair colour or height. Some people have ear canals that are smaller than average or shaped in a way that makes it difficult for the naturally occurring wax to get out of the canal causing wax to build up and harden. Impacted wax can create a blockage called a ‘plug’. Wax plugs can cause hearing loss, discomfort, itching or tinnitus.  Once the blockage is removed, your hearing will improve. 

Hearing aid users are especially prone to ear wax build up which can cause hearing aids to be less effective and cause unpleasant whistling.

Ear Wax Blockage Symptoms

• Pain in the ear
• A feeling of unwanted fullness in the ear
• Constant ringing noise in the ear
• Less hearing ability in the affected ear
• Cough
• Dizziness