Ear wax is a natural substance that protects the ear canal by trapping dirt and debris; however, excessive wax can accumulate in the ears and cause you discomfort or health issues. Let’s look at five of these.
1. Reduced hearing loss
A common sign of ear wax build-up is reduced hearing. When excess wax blocks the ear canal, it prevents sound waves from reaching the eardrum effectively. This type of hearing loss is often temporary and improves once the blockage is removed.
2. You may have a sore ear or discomfort
Excessive ear wax can cause pressure or pain in the ear canal. This discomfort may range from a mild feeling of fullness to sharper pain, especially if the wax becomes impacted or hardens over time.
3. Ringing, buzzing, or hissing in your ears
Tinnitus, or a persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears, can occur when ear wax build-up presses against the eardrum or irritates the ear canal. While tinnitus can have various causes, ear wax blockage is one of the more common and treatable ones. Using headphones for too long or with the volume up too high can also lead to tinnitus.
4. Balance issues or dizziness
The ears play a crucial role in maintaining a good balance. When ear wax build-up interferes with the function of the inner ear, it can lead to dizziness or a sensation of being off-balance. This is especially noticeable in cases of severe blockage.
If you experience any of these signs, avoid using DIY methods. For safe and effective ear wax removal Swindon, visit a trusted audiologist such as https://www.earwax.co.uk/ear-wax-removal-near-me/swindon/ to address any discomfort or hearing issues.
5. Itching or irritation
Excess ear wax can cause the skin in the ear canal to become itchy or irritated. This may lead to a persistent urge to scratch the ear, which can exacerbate the problem or introduce infections if the canal is damaged.
While ear wax build-up is common and often harmless, it can cause some uncomfortable symptoms if left untreated.