If your hearing changed suddenly, is becoming worse over days or weeks, or the hearing loss comes with earache or discharge, ask for an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111.
What is earwax, and is it normal?
Earwax is normal. It is made in the outer part of the ear canal and helps trap dust and small particles. Movement of the jaw and the natural migration of skin usually help wax travel towards the entrance of the ear, where it can fall away without treatment.
For that reason, an ear does not need to be completely free of wax to be healthy. The problem is a build-up that blocks the canal, presses against sensitive skin or interferes with hearing aids and earphones. A blocked feeling is not proof of earwax, so looking inside the ear matters before deciding on treatment.
What does earwax build-up feel like?
The NHS lists several symptoms that can occur when earwax builds up:
- Hearing loss or speech and television sounding muffled
- Earache, discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the ear
- Tinnitus, such as ringing or buzzing without an outside sound
- Vertigo, which can feel as though you or the room is spinning
Symptoms may affect one ear or both. People who wear hearing aids may also notice whistling, reduced sound quality or difficulty fitting an earmould. These symptoms can have causes other than wax, including infection or inner-ear problems. A visual ear check helps separate a likely wax blockage from something that needs a different service.
Why do some people get blocked ears repeatedly?
Some ears clear wax less efficiently than others. According to the NHS, build-up is more likely when the ear canal is narrow or damaged, when there is a lot of hair in the canal, or when a skin condition affects the scalp or ear. Inflammation of the ear canal can also contribute.
Hearing aids, earplugs and in-ear headphones can interrupt the natural movement of wax or push it deeper. Cotton buds often do the same. Ageing can make wax drier and harder, which is one reason recurring blockage is common among older adults. Repeated build-up does not mean you have done anything wrong; it may simply mean your ears need occasional assessment and a sensible prevention plan.
What should you avoid putting in your ear?
Do not put fingers, cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal. They can push wax further in, scratch the skin or damage the eardrum. Ear candles are not a safe substitute for clinical removal. Cleaning the outside of the ear gently is enough; the canal itself is designed to look after much of its own cleaning.
The NHS advises against using drops when you have a hole in the eardrum. If you have had ear surgery, suspect a perforation, or have pain or discharge, ask a healthcare professional before putting any liquid into the ear.
Can wax-softening drops help?
A pharmacist may advise drops to soften wax. When they are suitable, they can help wax clear naturally or make professional removal more comfortable. Hearing can sometimes feel temporarily more blocked as liquid enters the wax. Follow the product instructions and the preparation advice given by the service you are attending.
If symptoms continue, return, or are not clearly explained by wax, arrange a clinical assessment rather than repeatedly treating yourself. The goal is to understand what is in the ear, not simply to keep adding drops.
When might a professional ear assessment help?
An assessment may be useful when a blocked sensation or muffled hearing persists, when hearing-aid performance has changed, or when you have a history of impacted wax. The clinician should ask about symptoms and relevant ear history before examining both ears.
If wax is present and removal is appropriate, services may use methods such as microsuction, irrigation or a small instrument. North London Ear Care uses microsuction: a fine suction tube is used while the ear canal is viewed directly. Treatment should only proceed after the findings, expected sensations and alternatives have been explained.
No wax means no wax-removal procedure. You should be told what the examination showed and where to seek the right next assessment for persistent hearing or ear symptoms.
Questions people often ask
Can earwax cause permanent hearing loss?
A wax blockage can reduce sound reaching the eardrum. However, not all hearing loss is caused by wax. If hearing does not return to normal after appropriate removal, or no blockage is present, further hearing or medical assessment may be needed.
Should both ears be checked if only one feels blocked?
Yes. Comparing both ears gives useful context and can identify wax in an ear that has not yet caused noticeable symptoms. It also helps the clinician explain whether removal is necessary in either ear.
How can I reduce future build-up?
Avoid inserting objects into the canal. If you use hearing aids or earplugs, keep them clean and follow their care instructions. People with recurring wax can ask for advice tailored to their ears rather than following a fixed removal schedule without an assessment.
Sources and editorial note
This guide was prepared from public NHS and NICE information. It is educational and does not replace personal medical advice.
Last reviewed: 29 August 2026.