Can Earwax Buildup Lead to Hearing Loss?

You may be surprised to learn that earwax, also known as cerumen, plays an essential role in keeping your ears healthy. It traps dust, moisturizes the ear canal, and provides natural protection against bacteria.

While earwax usually travels outward on its own, it sometimes builds up faster than the body can remove it. When this happens, the result can be an uncomfortable and sometimes alarming sensation of muffled hearing or ringing in the ears.

Fortunately, hearing loss related to earwax buildup is almost always temporary and reversible.

Check out this information from ENT specialist Philip T. Ho, MD, FACS, and his team at Silicon Valley ENT & Sinus Center in Los Gatos, California, about earwax buildup and how it can affect your hearing.

How earwax causes hearing loss

Hearing depends on sound waves traveling through the ear canal to the eardrum. When earwax becomes impacted, meaning it forms a firm blockage, it can obstruct the canal, preventing sound from passing through.

This is known as conductive hearing loss, a type of hearing loss that’s caused by something blocking sound rather than a problem with the inner ear or nerves.

Patients with impacted earwax often describe symptoms such as:

• Muffled hearing or reduced sound clarity
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Tinnitus (ringing)
• Earache or discomfort
• Episodic dizziness

Once the blockage is removed, your hearing typically returns to normal right away.

Why it happens

Several factors can increase your risk of impacted earwax. Some people naturally produce drier or thicker wax, which is more likely to become impacted.

Additionally, narrow or curved ear canals can trap wax more easily. Frequent use of hearing aids, earbuds, or earplugs may push wax deeper into the canal rather than allowing it to come out.

One of the most common causes of buildup is the use of cotton swabs. Although many people use them to “clean” their ears, they often push wax farther in, worsening the blockage.

Safe treatment options

If you suspect earwax is affecting your hearing, resist the urge to remove it yourself. Inserting tools or swabs into the ear can cause irritation, infection, or even eardrum damage.

Instead, schedule a visit to Silicon Valley ENT & Sinus Center. ENT specialists offer safe and effective removal options, including manual extraction, irrigation, and other in-office procedures.

Over-the-counter ear drops may help soften wax at home, but a professional should always evaluate persistent symptoms.

Preventing future buildup

To keep earwax from becoming a recurring problem:

• Avoid inserting cotton swabs or objects into the ear.
• Schedule regular cleanings if you’re prone to impacted earwax.
• Limit heavy earbud or hearing-aid use without proper maintenance.
• Use ear drops as recommended by your ENT if you produce excessive wax/

If your hearing suddenly becomes muffled or if you experience pain, drainage, or dizziness, it’s best to schedule an appointment. Dr. Ho can safely diagnose the cause, quickly restore your hearing, and offer guidance for preventing future impaction.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Ho at Silicon Valley ENT & Sinus Center today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.