Earwax buildup: safe removal and when to see a doctor

Why your ears make earwax

Earwax, also called cerumen, is made by glands in the outer part of the ear canal. It traps dust and dirt, keeps the skin of the canal from drying out, and helps protect against infection. In most people, the ear cleans itself. Jaw movements from talking and chewing slowly move old wax toward the opening of the ear, where it dries and falls out. For this reason, most people do not need to clean inside their ear canals at all.

Signs of earwax buildup

When too much wax collects or gets pushed deep into the canal, it can cause a blockage, sometimes called an impaction. Signs can include a feeling of fullness or plugging in the ear, muffled or reduced hearing, ringing in the ear, itching, mild earache, dizziness, or cough from irritation of the ear canal. These symptoms can also come from ear infections, fluid behind the eardrum and other problems, so it is wise to have your ears checked if symptoms do not clear up.

What causes earwax to build up

Using cotton swabs, bobby pins or other objects in the ear is a common cause, because they push wax deeper and can pack it in. People who wear hearing aids, earplugs or earbuds often may have more buildup, since these devices block the natural flow of wax out of the ear. Some people simply make more wax or have narrow or hairy ear canals. Older adults are more likely to have dry, hard wax that does not move out easily.

Safe home care and what to avoid

Clean only the outer ear with a washcloth. Avoid putting cotton swabs or other objects into the ear canal. Ear candling is not recommended because it does not remove wax and can cause burns and other injuries. Over-the-counter ear drops that soften wax may help some people, but do not use drops or rinse your ear at home if you have ear tubes, a hole in your eardrum, ear surgery in the past, ear pain or drainage. Ask a clinician first if you are unsure.

Earwax removal at a doctor’s office

If wax is causing symptoms, a clinician can remove it. Options can include gently flushing the ear with warm water (irrigation), using small instruments such as a curette, or using gentle suction, often while looking through a microscope. An ENT specialist is often a good choice if you have a narrow ear canal, a history of eardrum problems, ear surgery, diabetes or a weak immune system, or if earlier attempts did not work. A hearing test may be offered afterward if your hearing still seems off.

When to see a doctor or get care right away

See a doctor if your ear feels blocked, your hearing is reduced, or home care does not help. Get care promptly if you have ear pain, fever, drainage from the ear, or bleeding. Sudden hearing loss is different from slow muffling from wax and should be checked right away. Call 911 or go to an emergency department if ear symptoms follow a head injury or come with severe dizziness, weakness, numbness or trouble speaking.

Finding an ENT near you

Primary care clinicians remove earwax often, and otolaryngologists (ENT doctors) handle harder cases, using a microscope and special tools. You can search this directory for ENT physicians in your area. Listings come from public federal registries, so services, insurance and appointment availability should be confirmed with the office. When you call, ask whether they offer earwax removal and whether you should stop using any ear drops before your visit.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to use cotton swabs to clean my ears?

It is best not to put cotton swabs in your ear canal. They can push wax deeper, pack it against the eardrum and scratch the skin of the canal. In rare cases they can injure the eardrum. Cleaning the outer ear with a washcloth is usually all your ears need.

Does ear candling work?

No. Ear candling has not been shown to remove earwax, and it can cause burns to the face and ear, wax dripping into the ear canal and damage to the eardrum. Health organizations advise against it. If you think you have a wax blockage, ask a clinician about safe removal options.

How do doctors remove impacted earwax?

A clinician first looks in your ear to confirm the blockage. Wax may then be removed by gently flushing the ear with warm water, scooping it out with a small instrument, or using gentle suction. Sometimes softening drops are used first. The method depends on your ear and health history.

Find care near you

• Otolaryngology (ENT) — find a physician by state
• Earwax removal — physicians with 2024 Medicare-billed services
• Hearing tests — physicians with 2024 Medicare-billed services

Sources

• MedlinePlus: Ear Disorders
• ENT Health (American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery)
• AAFP: familydoctor.org

Written from the public health sources listed above. A physician has not yet reviewed this guide. It is general information, not medical advice; talk with your clinician about your situation.