Home Remedies for Earwax Blockage

You’ve probably experienced the discomfort of earwax buildup, and you’re not alone. Many people face this common issue, but preventing it can be simpler than you think. By focusing on gentle ear care, you can keep your ears clean without pushing wax deeper. Avoid cotton swabs and instead, opt for a damp cloth to clean the outer ear. Staying hydrated and controlling humidity levels can also maintain the consistency of earwax, reducing blockages. But what about those stubborn cases when home remedies just aren’t enough? Let’s explore other options you might not have considered.

What causes ears blocked by earwax?

When earwax builds up, it can often lead to a blocked sensation in your ears. This feeling can be uncomfortable and sometimes even alarming. Earwax, or otherwise known as cerumen, is your body’s natural way of protecting and cleaning your ears. It traps dirt and slows the growth of bacteria, but too much can be problematic.

Earwax buildup occurs when your ears produce excessive earwax or when it doesn’t naturally clear out of your ear canal. Several factors can contribute to earwax blockage. Using cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ears can push wax deeper, leading to an obstruction.

Earbuds and hearing aids can also prevent wax from exiting naturally, causing it to accumulate. Additionally, some people naturally produce more earwax than others, making them more susceptible to blockages.

Understanding what causes excessive earwax and earwax buildup can help you prevent future issues. It’s important to adopt gentle ear care habits and be mindful of what you insert into your ears.

How do you know if your ears are blocked by earwax?

Ever wondered how to tell if earwax is causing your ears to feel blocked? It’s a common concern, and knowing the symptoms of earwax build-up can help you determine if you’re dealing with a blockage. The telltale signs often include a feeling of fullness in the ear, decreased hearing, or even a ringing sensation. You might also experience discomfort or itchiness in the ear canal.

Here’s a quick table to help you identify the symptoms of earwax build-up:

Recognising these symptoms early can prevent further complications. If you’re experiencing one or more of these signs, it’s likely time to reflect on your ear health. Remember, earwax plays an essential role in keeping your ears clean, but too much can lead to blockages. If these symptoms persist, consulting a healthcare provider might be necessary. Stay alert to the signs your body is giving you, and take steps to maintain your ear health!

What can I do at home myself to clear earwax blockages?

To clear earwax blockages at home, you can use over-the-counter ear drops designed to soften the wax, making it easier to remove.

Natural remedies, like warm water or olive oil, can also be effective in loosening the buildup gently.

Always follow instructions carefully and stop if you experience any discomfort or pain.

Medication you can use at home

While earwax is a natural and essential part of ear health, it can sometimes accumulate and cause discomfort. When this happens, you might wonder what you can do at home to alleviate the blockage.

Fortunately, there are a few over-the-counter medications that can help you tackle this issue effectively.

1. Ear Drops: Consider using ear drops specifically formulated to soften earwax. These drops usually contain ingredients like carbamide peroxide, which helps break down the wax, making it easier to remove.

Follow the instructions on the packaging for safe and effective use.

2. Irrigation Kits: After softening the earwax with drops, you can use an irrigation kit to gently flush out the loosened wax. These kits typically come with a bulb syringe which allows you to rinse your ear with warm water.

Be sure to follow the provided instructions to avoid any damage to your ear.

3. Wax Removal Aids: There are various tools designed to help remove earwax at home. These include small, spoon-like devices that can scoop out softened wax.

It’s vital to use them carefully to prevent pushing wax further into the ear canal. We suggest consulting with your audiologist on which tools to use and how to use them, before doing so yourself.

Natural Remedies

If you’re looking for a more natural approach to clearing earwax blockages, several home remedies can be quite effective.

One popular method is using oils like olive or almond oil. These oils help soften the wax, making earwax removal easier. Simply warm a small amount of oil, tilt your head, and gently apply a few drops into the affected ear. Let it sit for about five to ten minutes, then tilt your head the opposite way to let the oil and softened wax drain out.

Another effective home remedy is saline solution. You can easily make this by dissolving a teaspoon of salt in half a cup of warm water. Apply a few drops into your ear to soften and dislodge the wax. Make sure you allow the solution to sit for a few minutes before draining it out.

These home remedies are gentle and natural, helping you find relief from earwax build-up.

Two other home remedies we do not recommend, but you may hear about are, hydrogen peroxide and Ear Candling.

Hydrogen Peroxide

This is a common natural home remedy that comes up for home earwax management, but it comes with caution and a recommendation from us to not use this method. We believe that there is too much room for error when creating the correct mix to not be potentially damaging to your ears rather than helping them. Instead, use eardrops from the pharmacy with a solution already mixed with a peroxide like, Carbamide Peroxide.

Ear Candling

Ear candling involves inserting a hollow, beeswax-coated tube into the ear canal and lighting the other end, with the false claim that a “chimney effect” will draw out earwax. This method is not effective in removing earwax. In fact, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strongly advises against using ear candles because scientific studies have found no evidence that they are effective. Furthermore, ear candling carries the potential for injury, and home remedies like this should be avoided.

What can an Audiologist do for blocked ears from earwax build up?

When earwax build-up becomes more than a home remedy problem, an audiologist can offer effective solutions for your earwax condition to help you.

We use microsuction, a safe and precise method to remove blockages, or suggest the use of over the counter medication to soften the wax.

Additionally, we will assess your hearing to see if there are any underlying conditions that factor into your earwax buildup, ensuring your ears feel clear and comfortable again.

Microsuction

Blocked ears from earwax buildup can be frustrating, but audiologists offer an effective solution through a technique called microsuction. This method involves using a gentle suction device to carefully remove earwax from your ear canal. It’s a clean, precise, and safe way to address earwax buildup without the mess or discomfort that other methods might cause.

When you visit Stay Tuned Hearing for microsuction ear wax removal, you can expect:

1. Comfort: Unlike traditional methods like syringing, microsuction is more comfortable and less invasive. You can relax knowing the process is gentle on your ears.
2. Efficiency: The procedure is quick, often taking just a few minutes per ear. This means you’ll be back to your daily activities in no time, with clearer hearing.
3. Safety: Audiologists are trained to assess your ear canal and use specialized equipment to guarantee a safe and effective earwax removal process. There’s minimal risk of pushing the wax deeper or causing damage.

If you’re dealing with earwax buildup, consider reaching out to us for a microsuction appointment. You’ll likely find relief and regain clarity in your hearing, making life a little more enjoyable.

Medication

Though earwax buildup can be a nuisance, audiologists can sometimes recommend medication to help manage the situation. One of the most common solutions we suggest involves the use of ear drops. These drops are specifically formulated to soften and break down the wax, making it easier for your body to naturally expel.

When you use ear drops, you’re taking a proactive step to prevent earwax from becoming a larger issue. You might wonder how these drops work. Typically, they contain ingredients like carbamide peroxide, which effectively soften the wax.

It’s important to follow your audiologist’s instructions to guarantee safe and effective wax removal. Using the drops as directed can help maintain ear health and prevent future blockages.

If you’re dealing with persistent earwax buildup, we can discuss other medical options with you. However, ear drops are often the first line of defense.

Visiting our audiologist, Robin Tu, guarantees that your ear care is handled by someone who understands the complexities of the ear.

What can cause earwax build up and blockages?

You mightn’t realise it, but everyday factors like allergies, frequent headphone use, the climate you live in and even how you shower can contribute to earwax buildup.

Allergies can cause inflammation, leading to increased wax production, while headphones can trap moisture and block natural ear cleaning processes.

Additionally, dry or humid climates can affect how your ears produce and expel wax.

Showering

Showering is a great way to naturally use warm water to soften earwax and have it drain naturally.

But, using a shower cap could also increase the wax build up as the water is not washing out the ears. If you do need to use a shower cap, put your ears on the outside of the shower cap so that the water can still naturally runs over the ears.

Allergies

Allergies can considerably contribute to earwax buildup and blockages, making them an important factor to contemplate. When you experience allergies, your body’s response can lead to an increase in earwax production. This excess wax can cause blockages, leading to discomfort and potential hearing issues. Understanding how allergies affect your ears is vital for managing wax buildup effectively.

Here’s how allergies can impact earwax production:

1. Inflammation: Allergies cause inflammation in various parts of your body, including the ear canals. This inflammation can stimulate the glands responsible for earwax production, resulting in more wax than usual.
2. Increased Mucus Production: Allergies often trigger an increase in mucus production. The Eustachian tubes, which connect your middle ear to your throat, can become blocked by mucus, leading to pressure changes and impacting earwax movement.
3. Histamine Release: When you have an allergic reaction, your body releases histamines. These chemicals can cause itching and irritation within the ear canal, prompting you to scratch or clean your ears more frequently, potentially pushing wax further down and compounding the problem.

Headphones

Frequently, headphones are a convenient choice for listening to music or taking calls, but they can also contribute to earwax buildup and blockages. When you use headphones regularly, especially in-ear types, they can push earwax deeper into your outer ear. This can trap the wax, making it harder to naturally fall out, and leads to buildup over time.

You might notice signs of earwax buildup such as discomfort, a feeling of fullness, or even reduced hearing. It’s easy to overlook how headphones can influence these issues, but understanding their impact can help you take preventive steps.

To minimise earwax buildup, consider giving your ears some time to breathe by taking regular breaks from using headphones. Also, clean your headphones frequently to prevent transferring dirt and bacteria into your outer ear. Choose over-ear headphones if possible, as they’re less likely to push earwax into the ear canal (Although, still be aware of the humid environment this creates for your ears).

Climate

While climate might not be the first factor that comes to mind, it can greatly influence earwax production and buildup. Different climates affect your ear health in various ways, potentially leading to earwax build-up and wax blockage. Understanding these impacts can help you take preventive measures.

1. Humidity Levels: High humidity can increase earwax production. Moisture may cause earwax to swell, leading to blockages.

If you live in a humid area, ensuring good ventilation in your home can help manage this issue.

2. Dry Climates: On the flip side, dry climates can cause earwax to harden, making it difficult to naturally expel from the ears.

This hardened wax can lead to blockages. Using a humidifier indoors might help maintain a balanced moisture level for better ear health.

3. Temperature Fluctuations: Drastic changes in temperature can also affect earwax consistency.

Cold weather might make earwax harder, increasing the risk of wax blockage. Wearing ear protection in extremely cold or windy climates can help reduce these effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Wearing Headphones Cause Earwax Build Up?

Yes, wearing headphones can contribute to earwax build-up. They trap moisture and block airflow, which can cause wax to accumulate. To minimize this, regularly clean your headphones and give your ears some time to breathe.

How Often Should I Clean My Ears to Prevent Wax Buildup?

You should clean your ears every few weeks to prevent wax buildup. Don’t overdo it, as frequent cleaning can irritate your ears. If you experience discomfort or blockage, consult a healthcare professional for advice.

Are There Any Foods That Help Prevent Earwax Accumulation?

You’re curious about foods preventing earwax buildup. While no specific foods directly impact earwax, maintaining a balanced diet supports overall ear health. Focus on nutrients like omega-3s, magnesium, and zinc to help your body’s natural processes.

Can Stress Contribute to Increased Earwax Production?

Yes, stress can increase earwax production by affecting your body’s natural processes. When stressed, you might experience hormonal imbalances that could lead to increased earwax. Managing stress through relaxation techniques can help maintain normal earwax levels.

Is Earwax Build-Up More Common in Certain Age Groups?

You might find earwax build-up more common in older adults due to changes in ear canal structure or decreased natural earwax migration. It’s important to monitor symptoms and maintain regular ear hygiene for overall ear health.

By taking proactive steps, you can prevent earwax buildup and maintain ear health. Regularly clean the outer ear gently, avoid cotton swabs, and limit headphone use to encourage natural wax expulsion. Consider using ear drops or warm olive oil to soften wax, and stay hydrated to maintain proper earwax consistency.

Remember, regular check-ups with an audiologist are essential for ideal ear health. With these actions, you’ll keep your ears clear and comfortable, avoiding unnecessary blockages.

Interested in trying booking a session to help you with your earwax buildup?

If you’re looking for a an earwax blockage solution and want some advice on what would be best for managing your condition, then reach out and contact Stay Tuned Hearing on 03 9708 8626 and we can clean your earwax and help with suggestons for earwax managment.

Stay Tuned Hearing Clinic

Stay Tuned Hearing are specialists in the audiological field. 

Being an independent Audiologist, we provide professional and unbiased advice.