Earwax Removal

Earwax (cerumen), popularly known as “ear wax”, is a natural substance produced by the glands of the ear canal. Its main function is to protect the ear against dust, microorganisms and debris. Under normal conditions, earwax is gently pushed out of the ear canal during chewing and jaw movements, disappearing without the need for intervention.

Symptoms of Excess Earwax

When earwax builds up in excess, it can cause a feeling of a blocked ear and reduced hearing. It is common to experience tinnitus or clicking sounds when moving the jaw. Some people report a sensation of heaviness or internal pressure, mild discomfort and itching. In more severe cases, the buildup can trigger pain and, eventually, ear infections.

Care and Prevention

To maintain the natural balance of earwax, the use of cotton swabs or sharp objects should be avoided. These instruments can push the wax deeper into the canal, increasing the risk of impaction and injury. A good practice is to wash the outer ear externally with only water and mild soap, without inserting anything into the canal.

People who use hearing aids or ear protectors should be attentive to wax buildup, as the prolonged use of these devices can favor blockages. In these cases, periodic evaluation by a professional is recommended.

Prevalence

Obstruction by earwax is one of the most frequent causes of transient hearing loss in adults and children. It is estimated that about a quarter of the population experiences earwax impaction at some point in life. The condition is particularly common in hearing aid users, in the elderly and in people with a history of excessive earwax or narrow anatomical formations of the ear canal.

Treatment and Removal

Removal should always be guided by a health professional, preferably the otolaryngologist (ENT). Among the most commonly used methods are irrigation with warm saline solution and microsuction, which uses delicate instruments to remove the wax without damaging the ear canal.

In some cases, softening drops based on mineral oil or specific solutions may be indicated before the procedure. These substances help to soften the impacted earwax, facilitating removal. The prolonged use of drops should follow medical guidance to avoid irritation or allergies.

Home removal with irrigation should be avoided. Never use objects such as paper clips, hairpins or swabs for internal cleaning.

When to See an Otolaryngologist

It is important to seek medical evaluation when noticing persistent symptoms such as a blocked ear that does not resolve with softening drops, intense pain, constant tinnitus or discharge. The specialist will perform an examination with an otoscope, confirm the presence of impaction and choose the safest method for removal.

Care for hearing health and the proper removal of earwax ensure comfort and the preservation of hearing. At the office of Dr. José Eduardo Marcondes, with more than twenty years of experience, we offer a complete evaluation and safe procedures to keep your ears free of obstructions and in perfect health.

Frequently Asked Questions about Earwax Removal

What is earwax and what is its function?

Earwax is a natural substance produced in the ear canal to protect the skin of the ear against dryness, dust, microorganisms and small debris. Under normal conditions, it is eliminated spontaneously, without the need for internal cleaning.

Can I use a cotton swab or flexible stick to clean my ear?

It is not recommended. Using cotton swabs or objects inside the ear can push the earwax to the back of the canal, cause injuries and even favor obstruction or perforation of the eardrum. Cleaning should be limited to the outer part of the ear.

What symptoms indicate excess earwax?

When earwax builds up in excess, it can cause a feeling of a blocked ear, reduced hearing, tinnitus, itching, discomfort and, in some cases, pain. Some people also notice a worsening of hearing after bathing or when water enters the ear.

How is safe earwax removal performed at the office?

Removal can be done with techniques such as irrigation, the use of solutions to soften the wax or manual removal with appropriate instruments, always according to the doctor’s evaluation. The most important thing is that the procedure is performed with adequate visualization and in a safe manner so as not to injure the ear canal or the eardrum.

Who is at greater risk of earwax impaction?

Excessive earwax buildup is more common in people with a narrower ear canal, increased wax production, frequent use of hearing aids, in-ear headphones or cotton swabs. The elderly and people with a history of recurrent impaction may also be more predisposed to the problem.