Book Appt. Call Now
Fed up with recurrent ear wax buildup? Here is what you need to know
  • Find a doctor
  • Send a query
  • Book an Appointment
  • Second Opinion

Send a Query

Book an Appointment

Ask for a Second Opinion

Home >> Blogs >> Fed up with recurrent ear wax buildup? Here is what you need to know

Fed up with recurrent ear wax buildup? Here is what you need to know


What we commonly know as ear wax buildup is referred to as cerumen impaction in medical terms. Ear wax is important for healthy lubrication and it is also known to have antibacterial properties. Old ear wax is naturally thrown out of the ear canal owing to the regular motion of the jaw, which is usually due to chewing and talking. However, when it continues to accumulate in the ear, it can result in pain, loss of hearing and even dizziness. There are a number of different modalities available for removing wax, offered at the best ENT Hospital in Gurgaon.

What is ear wax impaction?

Ear wax impaction is marked by the excessive build-up of wax in the ear canal, to an extent where you start to experience symptoms that suggest that something is not right. Our ears have been designed in such a way that they can naturally clean themselves, however, some people tend to use objects like cotton swabs and earbuds, which instead of removing all of the wax, pushes some of it deeper inside.

What causes ear wax impaction?

We all know that ear wax impaction is marked by the build-up of wax in the year but have you ever wondered why it happens? There are many factors that could be responsible for the excessive build-up of wax in your ears. We have listed some of these in this blog with the help of the top ENT specialists in Gurgaon.

  • Osteoma which is marked by the development of a bony structure in the ear
  • An underlying infection like a swimmer's ear
  • Underlying dermatological diseases such as Eczema
  • An underlying autoimmune disease like lupus
  • Narrowing of the ear canal, which may be due to a congenital deformity or an injury.


How can the problem be treated?

Ear year wax buildup can affect you in many ways, which include irritation, hearing loss, and pain and it can even trigger headache and tinnitus.

Fortunately, the problem can be taken care of with the right treatment. Some of the most common treatment modalities for ear wax removal include

  • Use of ear drops - Ear drop is one of the most affordable treatment modalities. These are easily available in the market and all you have to do is tilt your head and put in a few drops, as recommended by your doctor. The drops help to soften the wax that has accumulated in your ear canal over time, making it easy to remove the same. The wax is then extracted by the doctor manually.
  • Microsuction - This is another, highly preferred treatment option for people who have excessive wax buildup. The procedure is safe however it is important to get a done by an expert because the year is quite sensitive.
  • Ear irrigation - It is an effective technique in which doctors flush the ear with a lukewarm mixture of saline water. Some people might experience it little discomfort during the procedure as it involves the use of a fast jet of water which is delivered through a syringe-like equipment. Ear irrigation may be done after the use of ear drops as it is much easier to remove the softened wax.


What will happen if you will not get the wax removed?

Your ear canal will continue to secrete wax and it will keep on accumulating, giving rise to various different complications, that include:

  • Otitis external
  • Severe pain in the ear
  • Temporary loss of hearing
  • Lightheadedness or dizziness
  • Build up of water in the ear canal
  • Perforations in the eardrum
  • Tinnitus or ringing sound in the ears
  • Bleeding


Is it possible to prevent ear wax impaction?

Experts from the best multispeciality hospital in Gurgaon suggest that it is not possible to completely negate the problem, however, there are ways in which you can alleviate the same. Try to use drops once a week as it will help to soften the wax that has accumulated and help it to come out naturally. You should go for regular cleaning of your ears after every 6 months, to make sure that you have already got rid of the wax before it gives rise to any complications. If you also avoid using cotton swaps and Q tips, as these can push the wax deeper inside.


If you want to know more about the problem or wish to consult the best ENT specialist in Gurgaon, book an appointment today.

Dr. Kunal Nigam, Head of the Department & Consultant

ENT, Cochlear Implant & Voice Disorders

Book an Appointment

Send a Query