Ear Wax Build-Up Explained

Ear wax (cerumen) is completely normal — it protects and cleans the ear canal, and usually works its way out on its own. For some people, though, it builds up faster than it clears, and that can start to affect hearing.

Why build-up happens

Some people naturally produce more ear wax than others, or have narrower or more curved ear canals that make it harder for wax to clear naturally. Using cotton buds or other objects in the ear can also push wax further in rather than removing it, which is a common contributor to build-up over time.

Signs it might be building up

A feeling of fullness or blockage, muffled hearing, mild discomfort, or an occasional ringing sound can all point to a wax build-up — though these can have other causes too, which is why it's worth having it properly checked rather than assuming.

What not to do

Cotton buds and similar objects are best avoided — they tend to push wax further into the ear canal rather than removing it, and can occasionally cause injury. If you'd like to soften wax before an appointment, a few days of olive oil drops can help, but this isn't required. Don't use drops if you have ear pain, discharge, or a known or suspected perforated eardrum, or if you've had ear surgery or grommets — see a GP or audiologist first in that case.

When to get it checked

If you're noticing muffled hearing or mild discomfort, it's worth having your ears assessed by a qualified audiologist rather than trying to clear it yourself. Microsuction is a widely recommended, minimally invasive way to remove a build-up without water or syringing — as with any procedure there's a small risk, which the audiologist can talk you through.

If you have ear pain that's more than mild, discharge or fluid from the ear, bleeding, or hearing loss with dizziness, see a GP promptly rather than waiting for a routine appointment — these can indicate something other than simple wax build-up.