Symptoms of Too Much Earwax
Too much earwax can cause a variety of uncomfortable and even painful symptoms, including:
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Hearing loss, muffled sounds, or ringing in the ear
• Itching, irritation, or a tickling feeling in the ear
• Drainage of a yellowish or sometimes bloody fluid from the ear
• Pain or discomfort in the ear
• Coughing
Causes of Too Much Earwax
Too much earwax can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
• Overuse of cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ear canal
• Producing too much earwax due to genetics
• Having a narrow or curved ear canal
• A buildup of dirt, debris, or skin cells in the ear canal
• Changes in hormone levels during menopause
• Certain medical conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis
Treatment for Too Much Earwax
Treatment for too much earwax typically involves removing the excess wax from the ear. This can be done at home with over-the-counter ear drops, or it can be done by a doctor using a special instrument called a cerumen spoon or curette. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe a steroid ear drop to reduce inflammation. If the buildup of earwax is caused by an underlying medical condition, then treating the condition will help to reduce the amount of earwax in the ear.