Ear wax is normal and healthy, but sometimes it builds up and blocks the ear canal. This is called impacted ear wax, and it can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
Ear wax (cerumen) is produced naturally by the body to protect and lubricate the ear canal. For most people, the ears are self-cleaning, with old wax gradually moving out of the ear canal on its own. However, in some people, wax can build up faster than the ear can naturally clear it, resulting in a blockage known as impaction. When ear wax requires removal, Ear Cleaning Clinic provides nurse-led microsuction ear wax removal in a dedicated ear-health clinic. Our nurses use magnification and a controlled suction technique to view and remove wax from the ear canal. With clinics in Bundall and Tweed Heads, patients can book directly without a GP referral.
Impacted ear wax is one of the most common ear complaints seen by health professionals in Australia. It can affect people of any age, and is more common in those who wear hearing aids, use in-ear headphones regularly, or have narrow or curved ear canals.
For more background on the causes, read why ear wax builds up.
The following symptoms can be associated with a build-up of ear wax. It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so we recommend you visit our ear nurse experts for a professional assessment.
You may notice:
Our guide to other causes of itchy ears explains why itching does not always mean a wax blockage.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s worth having your ears assessed by one of our nurses rather than attempting home treatment, which can sometimes make the problem worse.
Impacted ear wax rarely comes out on its own. Because the wax has blocked the canal and often hardened, the ear’s normal self-cleaning process cannot push it out. You usually need to soften or remove the blockage.
The earliest signs of an ear wax impaction include a muffled or decreased ability to hear, a plugged feeling of fullness inside the ear canal, and a persistent itch. As the blockage presses further against the eardrum, it commonly triggers a ringing sound or buzzing known as tinnitus.
No, most people do not have problematic earwax buildup. Healthy ears clean themselves naturally, and earwax usually moves out on its own. However, about 5% of adults and up to 33% of older adults experience compacted or blocked earwax.
If wax removal is recommended, read how to prepare for your ear wax removal appointment.
If you’re concerned about earwax build-up or your hearing feels muffled, the team at Ear Cleaning Clinic is here to help. No referral is needed – you’re welcome to contact us directly.
Phone: 1800 327 253
Book online: Book Ear Cleaning at Gold Coast Clinic Today
Clinics located in Bundall QLD and Tweed Heads NSW.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any condition, and is not a substitute for professional medical care. If you experience ear pain, hearing changes, discharge, dizziness, or suspect a blocked or damaged eardrum, consult a doctor or qualified healthcare provider before attempting any home treatment. Always speak with a physician before using any ear cleaning method, product, or home remedy, especially if you have a history of ear surgery, perforated eardrums, or chronic ear conditions.
Two Gold Coast locations. Open Monday to Saturday. Most appointments available within days.
