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

No. Cotton buds push wax further into the canal, pack it against the eardrum, and can scratch the skin or even perforate the eardrum. The ear canal is self-cleaning, and wax normally migrates outward on its own. Wiping the visible outer ear with a flannel is all that is needed.

How long do ear drops take to clear a blockage?

Olive oil or over-the-counter drops used two to three times a day usually soften a plug within three to five days, after which it may fall out or be easily removed. Some people notice hearing gets temporarily worse at first as the wax swells. If there is no improvement after a week, see a clinician for removal.

Does ear candling work?

No. Studies have shown that ear candles do not create suction or remove wax; the 'wax' seen afterward is residue from the candle itself. Candling has caused burns, candle wax deposits in the ear, and eardrum injuries, so medical bodies advise against it.

Why does my hearing drop suddenly after a shower if it's just wax?

Water makes a partial wax plug swell and fully block the canal, so a blockage you barely noticed can suddenly muffle your hearing. It typically eases as the wax dries, but it is a sign that the wax needs softening and removing. Any sudden hearing loss that does not resolve should be checked promptly.

Eye & EarICD-10: H61.2Very common at all ages, particularly in older adults and hearing aid users

Earwax Blockage

Also known as: Impacted cerumen, Earwax impaction

Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance that protects the ear canal by trapping dust, repelling water, and discouraging bacterial growth. Normally it dries up and works its way out on its own. Earwax blockage occurs when wax builds up, hardens, and plugs the canal, often because it has been pushed deeper by cotton buds or earbuds. The result is a feeling of fullness, muffled hearing, and sometimes earache or ringing. It is one of the most common reasons people see a doctor about their ears and is easily treated by softening the wax with drops or having it removed by a professional. Trying to dig wax out at home tends to make the problem worse.

At a Glance

Common symptoms: A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear, Partial hearing loss that may come on suddenly, often after showering or swimming, Earache or discomfort
Main treatments: Softening drops such as olive oil, almond oil, or over-the-counter cerumenolytic drops used for several days, Ear irrigation (syringing) with warm water by a clinician once the wax has softened, Microsuction: gentle removal of wax under direct vision using a small suction device
Category: Eye & Ear · Very common at all ages, particularly in older adults and hearing aid users
See a doctor if: Muffled hearing, fullness, or ringing that doesn't improve after a week of softening drops

Symptoms

A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear

Partial hearing loss that may come on suddenly, often after showering or swimming

Earache or discomfort

Ringing or buzzing in the ear (tinnitus)

Itching or a tickling sensation in the ear canal

Dizziness or a cough triggered by the blockage, in some cases

Causes

Pushing wax deeper into the canal with cotton buds, hairpins, or fingers
Producing more wax than the ear can clear, or wax that is naturally dry and hard
Narrow, hairy, or unusually shaped ear canals that slow natural clearing
Regular use of earbuds, earplugs, or hearing aids that block wax from moving out
Changes in wax with age, when it becomes drier and harder

Risk Factors

Older age
Hearing aid or earplug use
Habitual ear cleaning with cotton buds
Narrow ear canals or a history of ear surgery
Skin conditions such as eczema affecting the ear canal
Learning disabilities or dementia, where symptoms may go unrecognised

Diagnosis

Examination of the ear canal with an otoscope, which shows the wax plug directly
Hearing check if there is noticeable hearing loss
Assessment of the eardrum once the wax is cleared, to rule out other problems

Treatment

Softening drops such as olive oil, almond oil, or over-the-counter cerumenolytic drops used for several days
Ear irrigation (syringing) with warm water by a clinician once the wax has softened
Microsuction: gentle removal of wax under direct vision using a small suction device
Manual removal with special instruments by a doctor, nurse, or audiologist
Treating any skin condition or infection in the canal that contributes to build-up
Supportive: a few drops of oil once or twice a week can help keep wax soft in people prone to blockage

Prevention

Never insert cotton buds or other objects into the ear canal; clean only the outer ear
Use softening drops periodically if you are prone to build-up, as advised by your clinician
Have your ears checked regularly if you wear hearing aids
Avoid ear candling, which is ineffective and can cause burns and injury
Have wax removed professionally rather than attempting to dig it out

When to See a Doctor

Muffled hearing, fullness, or ringing that doesn't improve after a week of softening drops
Ear pain, discharge, or fever, which may indicate an infection rather than wax
Sudden hearing loss (this needs prompt assessment to rule out other causes)
You have a perforated eardrum, ear tubes, or previous ear surgery (do not use drops or irrigation without advice)
Dizziness or balance problems along with ear symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Hearing Loss

Eye & Ear

Tinnitus

Eye & Ear

Ear Infection

Eye & Ear

Have questions about Earwax Blockage?

Ask Mother Nature AI for personalized, evidence-based guidance.

Ask about Earwax Blockage

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Content reviewed against peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical guidelines. Read our editorial standards.