Earwax is completely natural and plays an important role in protecting your ears from dirt, dust, and bacteria. While you can’t prevent it from forming, there are ways to manage it and reduce build-up.
Regular use of eardrops can help soften the wax, making it easier for it to move out of the ear naturally and reducing the likelihood of blockages. However, some people are more prone to excess earwax throughout their lives, and in these cases, professional removal may be necessary.
Common causes of earwax build-up
You may be more likely to experience a build-up if:
- You naturally produce more earwax than others
- You have narrow or hairy ear canals
- You are older, as wax tends to become harder and less likely to fall out
- You regularly use hearing aids, earplugs, or earbuds, which can push wax deeper into the ear
Signs your ear may be blocked
A build-up of earwax can cause:
- Earache
- Reduced or muffled hearing
- Itching in the ear
- Dizziness
- Ear infections
- Tinnitus (ringing or high-pitched sounds in the ear)
These symptoms usually improve once the wax has been removed.
Earwax removal on the NHS
Unfortunately, earwax removal services on the NHS have been reduced in recent years, and many GP practices no longer offer this treatment.
How to treat earwax build-up at home
- Do not use fingers or objects such as cotton buds, as this can push wax further in and make the problem worse
- Applying olive or almond oil a few times a week can help prevent build-up
- Over time (usually within two weeks), softened wax may fall out naturally, often while lying down
- There is no reliable evidence that ear candles or ear vacuums are effective
If needed, a pharmacist may recommend sodium bicarbonate drops to help dissolve the wax. This usually works within about a week.
Important:
Do not use any drops if you have a perforated eardrum.
If symptoms persist or your ear feels significantly blocked, professional removal may be required. Please get in touch to book an appointment for ear irrigation.