Ear Wax
About ear wax build-up
About ear wax build-up
Ear wax is produced inside your ears to keep them clean and free of germs. It usually passes out of the ears harmlessly, but sometimes too much can build up and block the ears.
Ear wax is produced inside your ears to keep them clean and free of germs. It usually passes out of the ears harmlessly, but sometimes too much can build up and block the ears.
A build-up of ear wax is a common problem that can often be treated using ear drops bought from a pharmacy.
A build-up of ear wax is a common problem that can often be treated using ear drops bought from a pharmacy.
If pharmacy treatment doesn't work, contact your GP surgery. They may suggest having your ears washed out.
If pharmacy treatment doesn't work, contact your GP surgery. They may suggest having your ears washed out.
If these treatments don't help, your GP may refer you to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) department for specialised treatment.
If these treatments don't help, your GP may refer you to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) department for specialised treatment.
Symptoms of ear wax build-up
Symptoms of ear wax build-up
- hearing loss
- earache or a feeling that your ears are blocked
- ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus)
- vertigo (feeling dizzy and sick)
Causes of ear wax build-up
Causes of ear wax build-up
- you have narrow or damaged ear canals
- you have lots of hair in your ear canals
- you have a skin condition affecting your scalp or around your ear
- you have inflammation of your ear canal (otitis externa or "swimmer’s ear")
(NHS, 2021)
(NHS, 2021)