Ear Wax
- Dr. Pratibha Pandit Mane
- Apr 17
- 1 min read
“Wax ears” usually refers to earwax buildup, or cerumen impaction — when too much wax accumulates and causes symptoms. Earwax is actually a good thing in moderation: it protects your ears by trapping dust and keeping the canal moisturized. But sometimes it builds up and causes problems.

Common Symptoms of Excess Earwax:
Feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
Muffled hearing
Itching or irritation
Earache
Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)
Dizziness (in more severe cases)
Causes of Buildup:
Overproduction of wax
Using cotton swabs or earplugs, which can push wax deeper
Narrow or curved ear canals
Wearing hearing aids or earbuds frequently
Treatment Options:
At-home remedies:
Ear drops: specific ear drops given by the ent doctor can soften wax.
Avoid:
Cotton swabs (they often push wax deeper)
Ear candling (not safe or effective)
Professional help:
A doctor can remove it safely using irrigation, suction, or special tools.
When to See a Doctor:
Hearing loss, pain, or discharge that doesn’t improve
You’ve had ear surgery or a perforated eardrum (don’t try home methods)
Frequent wax buildup issues
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