Does earwax buildup cause hearing loss?

Earwax normally protects the skin of the ear canal. When it collects into a firm plug, sound has less room to travel toward the eardrum. You may notice muffled hearing, a blocked sensation, or sounds seeming quieter on one side. Most people with Earwax Buildup notice hearing loss, but hearing changes can also have other causes, so an ear examination is useful if the symptom persists.

Do not put cotton buds, hairpins, or other objects into the ear; these can push wax deeper or injure the canal. A clinician can look inside the ear and recommend softening drops, irrigation, or removal with an instrument when appropriate. Tell the clinician about ear surgery, a damaged eardrum, ear tubes, pain, or discharge before using drops or irrigation. Hearing should be reassessed if it does not return after the wax is removed.

Seek prompt medical care for sudden hearing loss, severe ear pain, fluid or blood from the ear, marked dizziness, or weakness of the face. Arrange an assessment for hearing loss that is one-sided, worsening, or accompanied by fever. These features should not be assumed to be caused by wax.

Could wax be blocking my ear canal, and can you check the eardrum? Which removal method is suitable for me? If my hearing remains reduced, what other checks might I need?