Cerumen, or earwax, plays an important role in maintaining ear health. This naturally occurring substance lines the ear canal and captures dust, dirt and small debris to keep harmful particles from reaching deeper into the ear.
Most of the time, earwax makes its way out of the ear naturally. However, in some cases, it can build up and become impacted, potentially leading to discomfort and chronic ear pain if not addressed.
What Is Earwax Impaction?
Earwax impaction happens when wax accumulates in the ear canal and can no longer exit on its own. This blockage may result from a few different factors, including the shape of your ear canal or the use of cotton swabs and similar objects that push wax deeper instead of removing it.
Signs that earwax may be impacted include:
- A sense of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Partial hearing loss
- Tinnitus
- Dizziness or imbalance
- Pain or discomfort inside the ear
If left untreated, this buildup can lead to chronic ear pain.
Understanding Chronic Ear Pain
Chronic ear pain refers to discomfort that continues for at least three months or keeps recurring. It can stem from various sources, including:
- Persistent or recurring infections
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
- Nerve-related issues affecting the ear and face
- Structural abnormalities of the ear canal or eardrum
While some causes of chronic ear pain may be complex, earwax impaction could be a potential source.
How Impacted Wax Causes Ongoing Pain
Earwax impaction is estimated to impact 10% of adults and 4% of children. When earwax becomes impacted, it can press against the delicate lining of the ear canal and eardrum. This pressure often results in a dull, persistent ache that doesn’t go away until the blockage is removed.
In more advanced cases, impacted wax can trap moisture in the ear canal, creating a warm, humid environment where bacteria can thrive, leading to infections and worsening pain.
Additionally, repeated attempts to clean your ears at home using cotton swabs or other tools can irritate the ear canal, cause micro-tears, and even lead to inflammation. People who frequently wear hearing aids or earbuds may also be at higher risk for wax impaction due to reduced airflow and constant pressure in the ear canal.
What You Should Do
If you suspect that earwax might cause your discomfort, it’s important not to try removing it yourself. Digging into your ear with cotton swabs or other objects often pushes wax further in and increases the risk of injury.
Instead, visit a doctor who can evaluate your symptoms and remove the blockage safely. In some cases, they may recommend using softening drops or performing a gentle irrigation to clear the ear.
For individuals who are prone to recurring wax buildup, regular ear maintenance under a doctor’s care can help prevent future problems and reduce the risk of chronic symptoms.
Just because you have an earache or mild hearing loss doesn’t mean wax is to blame, it could also point to another condition that needs attention. That’s why it’s essential to seek medical guidance if ear pain lasts more than a few days or returns frequently.
Understanding how earwax impacts ear health is key to managing chronic ear issues effectively. When treated properly, both the blockage and the discomfort it causes can be resolved quickly and safely.
To learn more about caring for your ears or to schedule an evaluation, contact Red River ENT Associates today.
