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The facts about a common ear complaint—and how to handle it safely.
Earwax — medically known as cerumen — is one of those bodily substances most people would rather not think about. But in the right amount, this waxy secretion plays a surprisingly important role in keeping your ears healthy. It helps clean the ear canal, traps dirt and debris, and contains antibacterial properties that protect against infection.
Most of the time, your ears are self-cleaning. Wax gradually migrates out of the ear canal thanks to movements like chewing or talking, where it flakes off or washes away unnoticed. But sometimes this natural process gets disrupted, and that's when problems begin.
While earwax is usually harmless, too much of it can cause discomfort and even lead to temporary hearing issues. Signs that you may be experiencing a blockage include:
For people who wear hearing aids or earbuds frequently, wax build-up is especially common. These devices can both block the natural migration of wax and stimulate glands to produce more. In fact, earwax is one of the leading causes of hearing aid malfunction.
Earwax is a mixture of secretions from the sebaceous and modified sweat glands, combined with dead skin cells. It forms in the outer third of the ear canal. Under normal conditions, this mixture dries out and exits the ear naturally.
But the process can break down due to a variety of factors:
And unfortunately, many common at-home remedies can make things worse.
The most frequent mistake? Sticking something inside your ear. Cotton swabs, hairpins, paperclips — these tools are more likely to push wax deeper into the canal than remove it. They can also scratch the delicate skin inside the ear or even damage the eardrum.
There’s a widespread myth that the ear needs regular "cleaning" with swabs. In reality, the ear is a self-sustaining system. Interfering with it can cause more harm than good. Most blockages occur when people attempt to clean their ears themselves and end up compacting the wax further in.
If you do suspect a blockage, there are safe ways to address it — many of which start with softening the wax.
Over-the-counter ear drops can break down hardened wax. These come in water-based solutions (with ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or bicarbonate) and oil-based types (like olive oil or mineral oil). Both can be effective depending on the nature of the blockage.
A bulb syringe can be used to gently flush out softened wax using warm (not hot) water. Tilt your head, apply the solution, let it sit for a minute, and then tilt the other way to allow the wax and fluid to drain out.
Important: Never irrigate your ears if you’ve had a perforated eardrum or surgery, or if you suspect an active infection.
Microsuction is considered one of the safest and most effective methods for wax removal. A trained practitioner uses a low-pressure suction device with a microscope for accuracy. Unlike irrigation, there’s no water involved — making it ideal for people with sensitive ears or past ear conditions.
While mild wax buildup can sometimes be handled at home, professional care offers several key advantages:
DIY Methods Professional :
Professional Microsuction:
If symptoms persist after home treatment, it’s best to consult a professional. Likewise, if you're experiencing pain, discharge, or significant hearing loss, don’t delay getting a clinical evaluation.
Children may not always be able to express discomfort caused by blocked ears. Watch for signs like tugging at the ear, irritability, or trouble hearing. It’s important not to use cotton swabs or small tools in children’s ears. Paediatric wax removal is best handled by a clinician.
Older adults, especially those using hearing aids, often experience wax buildup more frequently. Because hearing loss can be gradual, it’s sometimes dismissed as “just age” when in fact, a simple wax removal can restore clarity.
If you experience any of the following, seek medical advice:
At Hazelwood Hearcare, we understand how disruptive blocked ears can be — and how important it is to treat them safely. That’s why we offer professional, gentle earwax removal through microsuction — right at your doorstep.
Whether you wear hearing aids or are simply tired of that muffled feeling, we’re here to help your ears feel clear and comfortable again.
👉 Book your appointment today with Hazelwood Hearcare — and hear the
