Peter studied hearing aid fitting at the world headquarters of Starkey Labs. He was able to have hands on training with the company’s founder, Bill Austin. He has also undergone advanced training in the smallest, nearly invisible style hearing aids, and has expanded his education by traveling to Denmark to learn directly from European hearing aid manufacturers. He continues to attend conferences and training seminars to stay current on the rapidly evolving world of hearing aid technology.
Latest posts by Peter Lucier, HIS (see all)
- Is It Earwax or Something More? - January 26, 2025
- How to Determine When to Schedule a Hearing Evaluation - January 16, 2025
- How Mobile Hearing Services Can Simplify Hearing Care in 2025 - January 6, 2025
Earwax is often underestimated, but it plays an important role in ear health. While most people don’t give it much thought, earwax can sometimes cause issues when it builds up. The tricky part is knowing if the wax is simply doing its job or if it’s causing a problem.
For many, the question arises: is hearing being affected by earwax, or is something else happening? Below are some key signs that help determine if earwax is impacting hearing or if a visit to a hearing health professional for a hearing test might be necessary.
What Do Muffled Sounds Mean?
One of the first signs earwax might be causing problems is a noticeable change in how sounds are heard. If conversations suddenly seem muted or the TV volume needs to be turned up higher than usual, earwax could be the culprit. This happens when earwax accumulates to the point of partially or fully blocking the ear canal. It can act like a plug, reducing the clarity of sounds.
In these cases, it’s common for people to feel like their ears are “full” or “stuffed up.” While cleaning the ears at home might seem like a good idea, it’s important to avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs, as this can push the wax further into the ear.
Ear Discomfort or Itching
A sense of discomfort or persistent itching in the ears can also signal a wax buildup. When earwax gets too thick or hardens, it can irritate. Some might experience a tickling sensation deep in the ear, while others may feel a sense of pressure or even pain.
These signs suggest that earwax might not be exiting the ear properly. While earwax naturally moves out of the ear over time, when it doesn’t, it can create problems. If this discomfort persists, it might be time to have the ears checked by a hearing health professional.
Sudden Loss of Hearing
Sudden hearing loss can feel alarming. In some cases, it may happen rapidly, especially after swimming, showering, or lying down. This loss can be due to water mixing with earwax and causing a blockage. While a mild blockage can make sounds feel muffled, a more severe blockage can cause significant hearing loss.
However, a sudden drop in hearing could also point to other issues beyond wax, such as infections or damage to the ear. If hearing doesn’t return after a day or two, seeking a hearing test can help determine if something more serious is at play.
Ringing or Buzzing in the Ears
Experiencing a ringing or buzzing sound, known as tinnitus, can also be linked to excessive earwax. While tinnitus can occur for various reasons, a buildup of wax can irritate the ear canal and cause these sounds.
If ringing or buzzing is consistent, it’s a sign that the wax buildup may be substantial. At this stage, it’s a good idea to consult a hearing health professional to prevent further irritation and determine if earwax is the root cause.
Ear Infections
Excess earwax that remains trapped in the ear can sometimes lead to infections. Bacteria and other microorganisms thrive in warm, moist environments, and trapped wax can create these conditions. Signs of infection include pain, swelling, drainage from the ear, and, in some cases, fever.
Ear infections can sometimes mimic the symptoms of earwax buildup, making it difficult to tell what’s happening. In this case, a professional hearing test or ear exam can help distinguish between wax-related issues and more serious conditions.
When to Consider a Hearing Test
For those experiencing persistent hearing issues, even after attempting safe earwax removal, a hearing test can provide answers. While earwax is a common cause of hearing problems, underlying conditions such as age-related hearing loss or damage to the ear may also be factors.
A hearing test can quickly identify the cause of hearing difficulties. Hearing health professionals can also safely remove earwax and check for other potential issues that might be contributing to hearing loss.