Earwax, or cerumen as it is known by the fancy folks, is not a sign of dirt (but very dirty sounding anyway!). It is your ears’ way of protecting themselves naturally, trapping dust, adding moisture to the ear canal, and assisting in preventing infection. However, for others, excess wax is produced faster than it can be cleared away, leading to blocked ears and often muffled hearing or discomfort.

Common triggers for excess earwax

Some of the most common reasons why wax can be bothersome are listed below:

Cottonbuds: The most common offender, as they push wax and skin debris deeper into the canal, packing it against the eardrum.

Small or twisty ear canals: Some people are just constructed in a way that makes wax harder to get out on its own.

Excessive hair in the ear canal: Hair can impede wax migration and hold onto wax.

Conversely, things that go in the ear (like hearing aids or even just normal earplugs) can block wax from moving out and will often stimulate moisturising.

Drier, harder earwax can also develop from age (another reason why wax removal is safely done professionally). For Ear Wax Removal Swindon, contact www.earwax.co.uk/ear-wax-removal-near-me/swindon/

Dermatological disease: Eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis in the ear canal may impact wax production.

Regular dust or noise protection is already required for work like construction and manufacturing. The use of earplugs can cause lots of debris to be trapped in the wax.

When to get checked

If you have hearing loss, a feeling of blockage, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), itching, or dizziness, your ear might just need to be examined. Do not dig or use DIY instruments as they can seriously irritate or injure.

An easy ear test will be able to inform you whether the wax may be causing problems and thus can guide which method of removal is best.