Earwax, also called cerumen, is a natural substance made by the body to help lubricate and protect the ears. It contains hair, dead skin cells and discharge from glands. Usually, earwax moves through the ear canal without any problem. When it reaches the outer part of the ear, it flakes away. Most people do not need to clean their ears, they are meant to clean themselves.
Impacted earwax happens when earwax builds up in the ear canal. This can cause problems with hearing and other symptoms.
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What are the signs and symptoms of impacted earwax?
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the ear
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- Loss of hearing
- Itchiness in the ear
- Ringing in the ear
- Dizziness
- Discharge from the ear
What causes impacted earwax?
Impacted earwax most often occurs when people try to clean ear canals with cotton swabs or other objects. This can push the earwax deeper into the ear canal.
Some children may also have an ear canal shaped in a way that makes it harder for the earwax to move through on its own.
How is impacted earwax treated?
Do not try to remove earwax using a cotton swab or other object. This can make the problem worse.
To treat impacted earwax, a doctor may:
- Remove the earwax in the office using a special tool or suction
- Suggest a treatment at home to help soften or dissolve the earwax
Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan if your child requires treatment for impacted earwax.