Have you ever felt like your ear is blocked, or that sounds seem muffled and distant? You might be experiencing impacted earwax, commonly known as “stuck wax.” This common condition affects millions of Australians each year, causing discomfort, hearing difficulties, and, in some cases, dizziness.
At The Audiology Place, we regularly see patients who have tried various home remedies to deal with stubborn earwax—often making the situation worse. The good news? Professional, gentle removal techniques like microsuction can safely eliminate impacted wax and restore your hearing comfort.
What Is Ear Wax and Why Does It Sometimes Get Stuck?
Ear wax (cerumen) is a natural, protective substance produced by glands in your ear canal. Far from being just “ear dirt,” it serves several important functions:
- Traps dust and debris before they can reach your eardrum
- Creates a waterproof barrier that protects your ear canal
- Contains antimicrobial properties that help prevent infections
- Moisturises the ear canal to prevent dryness and irritation
Normally, ear wax naturally migrates outward as you talk, chew, and move your jaw. This self-cleaning process usually works efficiently—but not always.
Impacted or “stuck wax” occurs when this natural migration fails and wax accumulates, hardens, and becomes lodged in the ear canal. This blockage can significantly affect your hearing and comfort.
What Causes Ear Wax to Become Impacted?
Several factors can lead to ear wax becoming stuck or impacted:
- Improper cleaning attempts: Using cotton buds often pushes wax deeper into the ear canal rather than removing it
- Narrow or unusually shaped ear canals: Some people naturally produce more wax or have ear canals that make natural removal difficult
- Hearing aids and earbuds: Regular use of devices in your ears can compact wax and block its natural outward movement
- Excessive wax production: Some people simply produce more wax than others
- Age-related changes: As we age, ear wax typically becomes drier and less mobile
- Hairy ear canals: Hair can trap wax and prevent it from migrating outward
How It Feels: The Experience of Stuck Ear Wax
When wax becomes impacted, patients typically describe several distinctive sensations:
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Muffled hearing or sudden hearing loss in one ear
- A sensation like your ear is “underwater” or “plugged”
- Your own voice sounding unusually loud or echoey
- Itchiness or discomfort deep in the ear canal
- Ringing or buzzing sounds (tinnitus)
- Mild dizziness or a feeling of being off-balance
Many patients tell us they can feel the wax moving when they tilt their head, or they experience a “sloshing” sensation after showering. These are classic signs of impacted wax rather than an infection, though the two can sometimes coexist.
What NOT to Do When You Have Stuck Wax
The first and most important advice we give our patients: don’t push it in further. This means avoiding:
- Cotton buds/Q-tips: These push wax deeper and can compact it against your eardrum
- Ear candles: Not only ineffective but potentially dangerous
- DIY tools: Hairpins, paperclips, or any household objects can scratch the delicate ear canal
- Aggressive water irrigation: Forceful water flushing can damage your eardrum
- Ignoring the problem: Hoping it will resolve without intervention often leads to further impaction
When wax becomes truly stuck, attempting to remove it yourself often makes the blockage worse and can potentially damage your ear canal or eardrum.
Microsuction: The Gold Standard for Safe Wax Removal
At The Audiology Place, we specialise in microsuction—widely considered the safest and most effective method for removing impacted ear wax.
What is Microsuction?
Microsuction is a gentle procedure that uses a fine, low-pressure suction device to precisely remove ear wax while the audiologist views your ear canal under magnification. Unlike irrigation or syringing, no water is introduced into the ear canal.
Why Microsuction is Superior:
- Precision: The procedure is performed under direct vision, allowing for targeted removal
- Safety: No water pressure against the eardrum, reducing risks of perforation
- Comfort: Most patients find it more comfortable than traditional methods
- Effectiveness: Can remove even deeply impacted wax that other methods can’t reach
- Suitable for everyone: Safe for people with perforated eardrums, ear infections, or grommets
- Immediate results: Patients typically experience improved hearing immediately after the procedure
What to Expect During Microsuction
During your appointment, our qualified audiologist will:
- Examine your ear using a specialised microscope or video otoscope
- Explain what they see and the procedure
- Use a fine suction tube to gently remove the wax
- Show you the removed wax (if you want to see it!)
- Re-examine your ear to ensure all blockages are cleared
Most patients describe feeling a slight pulling sensation and hearing the suction sound, but the procedure is typically painless and quick—usually completed within 10-15 minutes.
Signs You Need Professional Ear Wax Removal
Seek professional help if you experience:
- Sudden or unexplained hearing loss in one or both ears
- Persistent sensation of fullness or blockage
- Pain, itching, or discharge from the ear
- Tinnitus (ringing) that develops suddenly
- Dizziness associated with ear symptoms
- Failed attempts at home treatment
Remember: your ears are delicate. If you’re uncertain about what’s causing your symptoms, it’s always better to have a professional assessment rather than attempting self-treatment.
Prevention: Keeping Ear Wax Moving Naturally
While some people are simply prone to wax build-up due to their ear anatomy, several practices can help prevent impaction:
- Avoid cotton buds: Let your ears clean themselves naturally
- Use preventative drops: For those prone to build-up, occasional olive oil drops can help soften wax
- Clean the outer ear only: Wipe just the visible part of your ear with a washcloth
- Take breaks from earbuds: Remove in-ear devices regularly to allow natural wax migration
- Schedule regular check-ups: Particularly important for hearing aid users or those with recurrent wax issues
The Audiology Place: Your Partner in Ear Health
At The Audiology Place, we understand how uncomfortable and disruptive impacted ear wax can be. Our gentle microsuction technique provides safe, effective relief without the risks of home remedies or outdated water irrigation methods.
Our experienced audiologists take the time to explain what they see, perform thorough but gentle removal, and provide advice to help prevent future blockages.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of stuck wax, don’t push it in further—push the button to book your appointment instead! Professional microsuction can restore your hearing comfort in just one quick, comfortable session.
Frequently Asked Questions About Impacted Ear Wax
Is it dangerous to have impacted ear wax?
While rarely dangerous, untreated impacted wax can lead to infections, temporary hearing loss, and balance issues. Very rarely, severe impactions can cause more significant hearing damage.
Can I fly with blocked ears?
Flying with blocked ears can be uncomfortable and potentially painful due to pressure changes. We recommend having wax removed before air travel if possible.
How often should I have my ears professionally cleaned?
This varies by individual. Some people never need professional cleaning, while others benefit from regular appointments every 3–6 months. Your audiologist can recommend a schedule based on your ear health.
Is microsuction safe for children?
Yes, microsuction is generally safe for children when performed by an experienced professional. It’s often preferred for children as it’s quick and doesn’t require water.
Can impacted wax clear on its own?
Mild cases sometimes resolve naturally, but truly impacted wax typically requires professional removal. Using olive oil drops for a few days can sometimes help with minor blockages.
How can I tell if my hearing problem is due to wax or something else?
Only a professional examination can determine this with certainty. However, sudden onset, one-sided symptoms, and a feeling of fullness often point to wax impaction.
