Earwax has a bad reputation, but it is actually a sign of a healthy ear. It only becomes an issue when there is too much of it, or when it is pushed in the wrong direction. Here is a clear, practical guide.
What earwax is for
Earwax (cerumen) cleans, protects and moisturises the ear canal. It traps dust and debris, has antibacterial properties, and naturally migrates out of the ear, carrying dirt with it. In other words, ears are largely self-cleaning, and a normal amount of wax is a good thing.
When it becomes a problem
Sometimes wax builds up or hardens and forms a blockage. This can cause:
- A feeling of fullness or blocked ears.
- Dulled or muffled hearing.
- Itchiness, mild discomfort, or occasionally ringing (tinnitus).
- Whistling or weak sound from hearing aids.
Please don’t use cotton buds
It is tempting, but cotton buds (and hairpins, keys or anything else) usually push wax deeper and can scratch the canal or even damage the eardrum. The old advice still holds: never put anything smaller than your elbow in your ear.
Safer options
- For mild build-up, pharmacy ear-drops (such as olive oil or sodium bicarbonate drops) can soften wax over a few days so it clears naturally.
- If that does not help, a hearing or medical professional can remove wax safely.
- Avoid ear candling — there is no good evidence it works, and it carries a burn risk.
Earwax and hearing aids
Wearing hearing aids can sometimes slow the natural exit of wax, so regular checks are worth it. Wax is also the most common reason hearing aids sound weak — usually a quick filter change fixes it.
When to see a professional
See a clinician if your ear is painful, discharging, bleeding, or if hearing drops suddenly. Sudden hearing loss should be treated as urgent — contact your GP or an ENT service promptly. If you have a perforated eardrum, grommets, or a history of ear surgery, do not use drops or attempt removal without professional advice.
How Agapé Audiology can help
At Agapé Audiology we can check your ears, advise on safe wax management, and make sure wax is not the reason your hearing or hearing aids are not at their best.
To arrange a check, contact Varsha Mathew on +61 499 079 203 or email info@agapeaustralia.com.au.
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Do not attempt to remove wax yourself if you have ear pain, discharge, a perforation or previous ear surgery. For sudden hearing loss or urgent symptoms, seek prompt medical care; in a life-threatening emergency, call 000.