Is It Hearing Loss or Wax Buildup?

Hearing impairment is a widespread condition that influences the lives of millions of individuals all over the world. On the other hand, not all cases of hearing impairment are caused by a loss of hearing that cannot be restored. In fact, the accumulation of earwax, commonly called cerumen, is a common cause of hearing impairments. Accurate diagnosis and efficient treatment occur with a solid understanding of the differences between hearing loss and wax buildup. This assessment can be completed by a qualified team that can determine what type of hearing loss you have and provides you with consistent care moving forward.

Understanding Ear Wax

Earwax is a naturally occurring substance generated by glands in our ear canals. In a normal situation, earwax will progressively move from the ear canal to the outer ear, finally drying out and falling out of the ear. However, in certain instances, the wax can build up and form a blockage, resulting in symptoms similar to hearing loss. It is critical to shield the ear’s delicate structures from the abrasions, bacteria, and dirt that may be present.

Hearing loss, either gradual or sudden, is one of the key indicators that someone has earwax buildup in their ears. A sensation of fullness or pressure may be felt in the ear affected by the condition in some people. Sounds could come across as muddled, distorted, or very faint. Dizziness, earaches, tinnitus, and occasional coughing are other symptoms that can result from earwax buildup. If you have any of these symptoms, it is imperative that you seek the advice of a qualified medical practitioner in order to receive an accurate diagnosis.

How Do You Properly Remove Ear Wax?

Ear wax removal clears the ear canal of too much or stuck earwax. Eliminating earwax safely can be done in several ways, from home treatments to professional help. Here are some ways that are often used:

Ear Irrigation

This method uses water or a saline solution to flush the earwax out of the ear with a syringe or a specially-made ear irrigation kit. When the liquid is gently squirted into the ear canal, the force moves the wax out of the way and flushes it out. Ear irrigation should be done by an experienced team as there are certain situations, such as when there is a perforated eardrum when this method should not be used.

Manual Removal

Removing ear wax manually is one of the best ways to ensure proper removal without further damage. An ENT specialist or an audiologist will use special tools like curettes or suction devices to remove the earwax by hand during manual removal. This process is done in the office to avoid hurting the ear canal or membrane. It requires care and precision, so working with an experienced team is key.

Ear Wax Dissolving Drops

You can soften the wax and make it easier to remove with over-the-counter or doctor-prescribed ear wax dissolving drops. These drops are often mixed with hydrogen peroxide, saline, mineral oil, or glycerin. After putting a few drops in the affected ear, you simply need to wait the allotted time for the drops to do their job.

It’s important to be careful when trying to get rid of earwax at home. You shouldn’t use cotton swabs, hairpins, or other sharp items because they can push the wax deeper into the ear, hurting it or making the wax worse. If home remedies don’t work or if there are worries about the ear, it’s best to see a doctor so the problem can be properly diagnosed and treated.

What Is the Best Way to Safely Clean Your Ears?

Since the ear is a sensitive organ, it’s important to understand the right way to clean it. Consider the following tips on how to clean your ears safely:

Use warm water: Letting warm water flow into your ear while you shower can help soften earwax and make it easier to drain on its own. Turn your head to the side and gently pour water into your ear. After that, turn your head the other way so the water can drain out. Make sure the water isn’t too hot, or you could get burned.

Use mineral or baby oil: If you have too much earwax, you can put a few drops of mineral or baby oil in your ear. Lay on your side when putting the drops in your ear canal. You’ll need to stay there for a few minutes so that the oil can soften the wax. Then, use a clean cloth to gently wipe the outside of your ear.

If needed, don’t hesitate to get help from a professional. This is essential if you have chronic earwax buildup, pain, or significant hearing loss.

How Can You Tell If It’s Ear Wax or Hearing Loss?

Because each condition’s symptoms might be similar, distinguishing between hearing loss and wax buildup can be difficult. Nevertheless, there are a number of signs that can help differentiate between the two. In most cases of hearing loss, the impairment happens in both ears. On the other hand, an accumulation of wax can frequently cause unilateral hearing impairments, affecting only one ear more than the other. In addition, hearing loss resulting from other factors, such as age-related hearing loss or noise exposure, typically develops gradually, whereas hearing loss resulting from wax buildup happens more suddenly.

It’s Important to Receive a Proper Diagnosis

An in-depth examination of the ear is needed to determine the root cause of hearing loss and establish whether it is due to an accumulation of wax or some other problem. Once this occurs, our team can provide you with the necessary treatment and continued care if needed.

If you are dealing with chronic ear wax or are concerned about possible hearing loss, contact our Hearing Associates of Las Vegas team today. We are a family-owned practice that is dedicated to the health of you and your loved ones’ ears. We take the time to understand your concerns and thoroughly evaluate each situation to ensure you receive the best care possible.