What is blockage of the ear with wax?
Earwax is a natural substance that helps to protect the ear canal from dirt, dust, and insects. However, too much earwax can build up and cause problems.
Symptoms of earwax blockages:
- Ear pain
- Ear fullness
- Hearing loss
- Itching in the ear
- Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
- Dizziness
- Cough
How earwax blockages affect people:
Earwax blockages can cause a range of problems, from mild discomfort to severe hearing loss. In some cases, earwax blockages can lead to infection.
Why do people get earwax blockages?
There are a few reasons why people may get earwax blockages:
- Overproduction of earwax: Some people simply produce more earwax than others.
- Narrow ear canals: People with narrow ear canals are more likely to develop earwax blockages.
- Use of hearing aids or earplugs: Hearing aids and earplugs can push earwax deeper into the ear canal.
- Improper cleaning of the ears: Using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ears can push earwax deeper into the ear canal.
Genetics, lifestyle, and disease:
Genetics, lifestyle, and disease can all play a role in the development of earwax blockages.
- Genetics: Earwax production is partly genetic. Some people are simply more likely to produce more earwax than others.
- Lifestyle: Hearing aid use and improper ear cleaning can increase the risk of earwax blockages.
- Disease: Certain skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, can increase the risk of earwax blockages.
Who gets earwax blockages?
Earwax blockages can affect people of all ages, but they are more common in children and older adults. Children are more likely to develop earwax blockages because their ear canals are smaller and narrower than adults' ear canals. Older adults are more likely to develop earwax blockages because their earwax tends to be drier and harder.
How are earwax blockages diagnosed?
Earwax blockages are usually diagnosed based on a medical history and physical examination. Mr Khatwa will look at the ear canal with an otoscope, which is a lighted instrument.
Diagnosis and treatment:
Once Mr Khatwa has diagnosed an earwax blockage, he will recommend a treatment plan. The treatment plan will depend on the severity of the blockage and the person's individual circumstances.
Some common treatment options for earwax blockages include:
- Earwax removal drops: Over-the-counter earwax removal drops can help to soften and loosen earwax. Once the earwax is softened, it can drain out of the ear canal on its own.
- Ear irrigation: Ear irrigation is a procedure in which Mr Khatwa uses a syringe to flush the ear canal with warm water. This can help to remove earwax blockages.
- Manual earwax removal: Manual earwax removal is a procedure in which Mr Khatwa uses a small, curved instrument to remove earwax from the ear canal. This is usually the most effective treatment for earwax blockages.
Lifestyle changes:
There are a few lifestyle changes that can help to prevent earwax blockages:
- Avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ears.
- If you wear hearing aids, make sure to clean them regularly.
- If you have a history of earwax blockages, see Mr Khatwa for regular ear cleaning.
If you think you or your child may have an earwax blockage, book an appointment with Mr Khatwa. He can diagnose the blockage and recommend a treatment plan that is right for you or your child.
