5 Surprising Health Issues Linked to Ear Wax Buildup You May Not Be Aware Of

Ear wax might seem like a small detail of personal hygiene. Plenty of people use cotton buds to remove it or even their fingers. Oftentimes, you may think of ear wax as a minor inconvenience; but it can significantly impact your health when it builds up excessively. In fact, ear wax serves several important roles, including protecting the ear canal and trapping dust and debris. However, when too much accumulates, it can lead to uncomfortable and unexpected health issues. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it may be due to ear wax buildup. 

1. Hearing Loss

One of the most common and noticeable issues associated with ear wax buildup is hearing loss. Excess wax can block the ear canal, creating a physical barrier that prevents sound waves from reaching the eardrum. This type of hearing loss, known as conductive hearing loss, can be gradual, causing individuals to ignore the symptoms until they worsen.

As a professional at Ellie’s Hearing Clinic explains, “Untreated ear wax buildup can cause temporary hearing loss, but if left unmanaged, it may also lead to more persistent hearing difficulties.” Regular ear care, including professional ear wax removal, can help prevent hearing issues from escalating.

Prevention and Removal

Avoiding the use of cotton swabs, which can push wax further into the ear, is essential. Instead, try using ear drops specifically designed to soften wax or consult a professional for regular ear cleaning. For those with recurring wax buildup, periodic visits to a clinic for gentle ear wax removal may be beneficial.

2. Dizziness and Vertigo

Excessive ear wax can also cause feelings of dizziness or vertigo, particularly if it presses against the eardrum or causes a blockage that disrupts the ear’s balance mechanism. The inner ear plays a vital role in helping us maintain equilibrium, and when this area is compromised, it can result in sensations of spinning or feeling off-balance.

Vertigo caused by ear wax buildup is more common than many realise, and if ignored, it can increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults. Sudden episodes of dizziness warrant a check-up, as clearing the wax can often alleviate the symptoms quickly.

Prevention and Removal

To prevent buildup, consider using an over-the-counter ear cleaner designed to maintain ear health. For individuals prone to vertigo, regular ear exams with a hearing specialist may be beneficial. Avoid attempting to clear wax with foreign objects, as these can compact the wax and exacerbate balance issues.

3. Balance Problems

Related to dizziness, balance problems can also be attributed to ear wax impaction. When wax blocks the ear canal, it interferes with the inner ear’s role in maintaining balance, which may cause unsteadiness or coordination issues.

People with balance problems due to ear wax often experience additional symptoms like nausea or a feeling of fullness in the ear. A quick ear wax removal procedure can provide almost immediate relief in many cases.

Prevention and Removal

Practising regular ear hygiene with safe products can help prevent buildup. For those prone to wax accumulation, routine visits to an audiologist or ENT specialist for professional cleaning are recommended to keep balance issues at bay.

4. Ear Infections

Ear infections often occur when bacteria become trapped in the ear canal due to wax buildup. The wax acts as a barrier, allowing moisture and bacteria to build up behind it, which can lead to infections. Symptoms of an ear infection include pain, swelling, discharge, and sometimes fever.

Infections linked to ear wax buildup are more common in individuals with narrower ear canals or those who wear hearing aids. Regular ear wax removal and maintaining a dry ear canal can help reduce the risk of infection.

Prevention and Removal

Those susceptible to ear infections should avoid inserting any objects into the ear. Consider using ear drops to soften wax naturally and drain excess moisture from the ear canal. If infections are recurrent, a medical professional may recommend professional ear cleaning.

5. Chronic Cough

One of the most surprising side effects of ear wax buildup is a chronic cough. This unusual reaction occurs because the ear canal shares a nerve with the throat. When excess wax presses against this nerve, it can trigger a reflex cough.

If you’ve noticed a persistent, unexplained cough, it may be worth considering ear wax buildup as a possible cause. In many cases, removing the wax provides relief almost instantly.

Prevention and Removal

To prevent the buildup that can lead to a reflex cough, adopt a routine that includes regular ear care. Use natural, gentle ear drops or a wax-softening solution. If the cough persists or worsens, a visit to a healthcare provider for professional ear cleaning may be necessary.

Safe Removal Tips and When to Seek Help

While ear wax removal might seem simple, it’s essential to avoid do-it-yourself methods that can lead to further complications. Cotton swabs, hairpins, and other tools can push wax deeper into the canal, risking injury and compaction.

If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned or suspect ear wax buildup, consult a professional. Many hearing clinics offer painless and quick ear wax removal services that ensure your ears are safely cleaned. Additionally, “Regular ear cleaning by a professional can help prevent these surprising health complications and preserve ear health,” advises a specialist at Ellie’s Hearing Clinic.

While ear wax serves an essential role, excessive buildup can lead to unexpected health complications. From hearing loss and balance issues to infections and a chronic cough, the effects of unchecked ear wax are varied. Fortunately, with proper ear care, many of these problems can be avoided or easily remedied.

If you’re experiencing symptoms that may be linked to ear wax, consider scheduling an ear wax removal appointment. Taking proactive steps in ear care can go a long way in maintaining not only your hearing but also your overall health.

Photo by Rafsan Alam on Unsplash