What is earwax build up and what does it mean when wax becomes impacted?

Many people produce more earwax than is necessary or have a problem getting rid of it. As a result, the wax gradually builds up to form a solid mass instead of being disposed of in everyday life as normal.

Another common occurrence is the overuse of cotton swabs or bobby pins on the ears; much of the time, this can result in wax being pushed farther into the ear canal. This can result in serious complications.

What are possible complications of earwax impaction?

A range of difficulties can arise from such impaction, from the relatively innocuous to the life-impeding. These include irritation, dizziness, earache and a ringing in the ears, but can become as serious as an overall loss of hearing.

What are the symptoms of ear wax impaction?

If you experience any of the following, you are advised to contact one of our specialists as soon as possible. The quicker the diagnosis, the quicker the treatment; the quicker the treatment, the quicker the recovery!

• A feeling of ‘fullness’ in the ear
• Ear pain or soreness
• Hearing difficulties
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Itchiness inside the ear
• Liquid discharge from the ear
• Noticeable odour from the ear
• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Nausea

Thankfully, we have a range of treatments designed to remove ear wax. You can read more about our methods here!