What are the symptoms of earwax buildup?

Wax normally protects the ear canal, but a thick or impacted plug can interfere with sound reaching the eardrum. You may notice that voices sound less clear, one ear feels fuller than the other, or your own voice seems unusually loud. Earache and itching can occur when the canal is irritated. Ringing may be intermittent or continuous. These symptoms can also have other causes, so hearing changes should not automatically be attributed to wax.

A clinician can look inside the ear to check whether wax is present and whether the eardrum is visible. A hearing test may help when reduced hearing persists or the cause is uncertain.

Do not put cotton buds, hairpins or other objects into the canal; they can push wax deeper or injure the skin. Keep water out if the ear is painful or draining. Arrange an assessment if symptoms do not settle, if hearing is reduced, or if you are unsure whether wax is responsible. Clinicians can discuss suitable softening drops or ear wax removal after checking the ear.

Seek prompt medical advice for sudden hearing loss, severe pain, discharge, bleeding, marked dizziness, or weakness of the face. An earache with fever or worsening symptoms also needs assessment because infection or another problem may be present.

Ask whether the ear canal is blocked, whether the eardrum looks healthy, and whether a hearing test is appropriate. You can also ask which removal method suits your ear and what symptoms should prompt a return visit.