What should you know about ear wax ball removal?

Wax can collect into a dry, firm lump, especially when it is pushed inward by cotton buds, earbuds or hearing devices. It may cause a blocked sensation, muffled hearing, itch or ringing. Similar symptoms can come from canal inflammation or a problem deeper in the ear, so appearance and symptoms need checking rather than assuming the lump is the only cause.

Do not dig at the lump with tweezers, hairpins or cotton buds. A clinician can inspect its position and may soften it before removal. Depending on the ear, controlled techniques such as microsuction or instrument removal may be used under direct vision. Tell the clinician about previous ear surgery, tubes, a known eardrum hole, pain or discharge before the procedure.

Arrange an assessment for a painful blocked ear, new hearing loss, ongoing ringing, discharge, bleeding or dizziness. Seek prompt help after an object has been used in the canal or when symptoms start suddenly. Pain or discharge can indicate that removal should wait until the canal and eardrum have been assessed.

Ask how firmly the wax is attached, whether softening is needed, which method will be used, whether both ears should be checked, and what care is sensible if the blockage returns.