What should you know about ear wax blocking my ear?

A plug of wax can narrow the ear canal, so sound is less clear and your own voice may sound unusually loud. You might notice pressure, itching, an earache, or a ringing noise. Earwax buildup is common, but similar symptoms can come from infection, trapped water, or another hearing problem. Looking into the ear is the practical way to tell whether wax is present and whether the eardrum can be seen.

Stop using cotton buds or improvised cleaners inside the ear. They can scrape the canal or compact the wax. If a pharmacist or clinician has confirmed uncomplicated wax, they may suggest drops to soften it before removal. A professional can then clear the canal using a suitable method. Read about [Ear Wax Removal](/treatments/minor-procedures/ear-wax-removal/) and consider a [Hearing Test](/treatments/diagnostics-and-screening/hearing-test/) if hearing remains reduced once the blockage is gone.

Seek prompt care for a sudden hearing change, severe pain, pus or blood, fever, spinning dizziness, or new weakness around the face. Arrange an examination rather than self-treating if you have had ear surgery, a hole in the eardrum, ear tubes, or repeated infections. Ongoing [Earache](/symptoms/earache/) or [Hearing Loss](/symptoms/hearing-loss/) should not be assumed to be wax.

Can you confirm that wax is causing the blockage? Is the eardrum visible and healthy? Should I soften the wax first, and what should I do if hearing stays muffled?