How to prevent hearing loss caused by earwax?

Hearing loss, called hypoacusis, consists of a decrease in the ability to hear in one or both ears and can occur for various reasons. Progressive aging of the hair cells responsible for hearing function, congenital defects of the ear, improper lifestyle, taking certain medications, infections affecting the ear, etc. Int his article, we try to understand what measures should be taken to prevent hearing loss, which is mostly caused by earwax.

How can too much earwax cause conductive hearing loss?

Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves are unable to reach the inner ear due to an obstruction in the outer or middle ear. Excessive earwax buildup is a common cause of this type of hearing loss. When earwax hardens and blocks the ear canal, it prevents sound waves from passing through, leading to a reduction in hearing ability. This condition can be temporary and is usually resolved once the earwax is removed.

Ear hygiene is important to avoid excessive accumulations of earwax that can block the ear canal. A correct and delicate cleaning with soap and water is sufficient; however, the use of cotton swabs should be avoided or limited to cleaning the auricle only.

Does the amount of earwax people have affect their hearing?

The amount of earwax produced varies from person to person and can be influenced by factors such as age, diet, and genetics. While a small amount of earwax is normal and beneficial, excessive production can lead to blockages and hearing issues. People with naturally higher earwax production may be more prone to experiencing hearing problems if the wax is not regularly managed.

How can ear wax removal improve your hearing?

The first symptoms that indicate the formation of earwax plugs are the feeling of a"clogged ear", autophony (hearing your own voice echoing) and associated hearing loss with sounds inside the ear. In certain cases, earwax plugs can provoke the onset of inflammatory events that are associated with the already unpleasant feeling of clogged ears. Removing excess earwax cansignificantly improve hearing, especially if the wax has caused a blockage.There are several safe methods for earwax removal, including:

· Over-the-counter ear drops: These drops soften the earwax, making it easier to remove.

· Irrigation: This involves flushing the ear canal with water or a saline solution to dislodge and remove the wax.

· Manual removal: Performed by a healthcare professional using specialised tools to safely extract the earwax.

After cleaning my ear, I’m hearing less sound. What do I do?

Earwax is one of the most common causes of ear blockage and sometimes too much earwax builds up and it can affect your hearing. However, using cotton swabs to remove earwax can make matters worse, as the wax is pushed further into the ear, building up and hardening. Devices like earplugs, headphones, and hearing aids also push the wax further into the ear, preventing it from naturally draining out. When you experience a prolonged sensation of blocked hearing after cleaning your ear, it is good practice to contact healthcare professional to identify the problem and solve it.

ReliableSolution for Your Hearing Issues: earLAB Clinic

When earwax tends to accumulate and compact, on the one hand the physiological balance of the environment of the ear canal is altered, making it more sensitive to infections, and on the other a real plug is created that obstructs the ear, with repercussions on hearing function and pain. If you’re experiencing ear blockage or hearing loss, it might be time to seek professional help. earLABClinic, with its expert team and state-of-the-art equipment, is here to protect your ear health.

Book an appointment now and regain your hearing health!