Hearing loss is a common issue, often noticed when someone struggles to follow conversations, turns up the volume on the television, or misses key sounds. It can occur for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common causes is excessive earwax buildup. If hearing loss is present and earwax buildup is suspected, seeking professional earwax removal is recommended and our experts at The Hearing Hub in Slough are here to help. In this post, we’ll explain how ear wax buildup can lead to hearing loss, highlight some other symptoms and discuss how professional ear wax removal can restore hearing and provide much-needed relief.
Why Hearing Loss Can Be Caused by Earwax Buildup
Many people experiencing hearing loss may not immediately consider earwax buildup as a potential cause. Earwax is naturally produced, but excessive buildup can become impacted, leading to various problems, including hearing loss. This occurs when excess earwax blocks the ear canal, preventing sound from reaching the eardrum properly. In some cases, hearing loss due to earwax buildup can be temporary and easily treated. If earwax buildup is suspected as the cause of hearing loss, professional removal through a technique like microsuction is recommended. Below we explain how earwax buildup can cause hearing loss:
- Blocking Sound Pathways: When ear wax accumulates and becomes compacted in the ear canal, it can create a physical barrier that prevents sound waves from reaching the eardrum. This blockage can lead to muffled or diminished hearing, often affecting one ear more than the other.
- Pressure on the Eardrum: As the ear wax buildup presses against the eardrum, it can create a sensation of fullness and reduce the ear’s ability to vibrate in response to sound. This pressure can distort sound and result in a temporary loss of hearing.
- Impaired Eustachian Tube Function: Excess ear wax can sometimes affect the Eustachian tube, which helps equalise pressure in the middle ear. When blocked, the tube can’t function properly, leading to a feeling of pressure and potentially muffled hearing.
In addition to hearing loss, there are several other symptoms that may suggest ear wax buildup. Earaches or discomfort, which occurs when blocked ear wax causes pain or a feeling of fullness in the ear, especially when it puts pressure on the ear canal or eardrum. Tinnitus or ringing in the ear, is a common symptom of ear wax buildup, and can manifest as ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in the ear due to the blockage.
Itching in the ear due to accumulated wax can irritate the ear canal, leading to persistent itching or discomfort inside the ear. If hearing loss is accompanied by other symptoms like earache, tinnitus, or a feeling of fullness in the ear, it could indicate that earwax buildup is the cause, and professional removal through a technique like microsuction may be necessary.
How Microsuction Can Help Hearing Loss
Microsuction is a safe, effective, and precise method of ear wax removal that involves using a small, gentle suction device to remove impacted ear wax. We offer microsuction at our Slough clinic, and it’s often the first go-to method for ear wax removal. During the appointment, a thorough assessment of the ears and the extent of the blockage will be conducted to determine if microsuction is the most suitable method for earwax removal. The process is quick and pain-free making it a comfortable experience for people. Below, we explore why microsuction can help alleviate hearing loss and other symptoms caused by ear wax blockage.
Restores Clear Sound Pathways
Microsuction removes impacted ear wax that blocks the ear canal, allowing sound waves to pass through to the eardrum properly. By clearing the blockage, it restores the natural hearing pathways, improving sound clarity and volume.
Relieves Pressure on the Eardrum
When ear wax becomes impacted, it can place pressure on the eardrum, leading to discomfort and hearing loss. Microsuction safely removes the wax, relieving this pressure and helping to restore normal ear function.
Prevents Further Complications
Left untreated, ear wax buildup can lead to persistent hearing loss and even ear infections. Microsuction not only removes the current buildup but also reduces the risk of future blockages, ensuring long-term ear health and improved hearing.
Book a Microsuction Appointment at The Hearing Hub
If you are experiencing hearing loss and believe it may be due to earwax buildup can find relief at The Hearing Hub. We offer a range of earwax removal methods to restore ear health. Their microsuction earwax removal process is safe, effective, and performed by a team of skilled audiologists experienced in managing earwax blockages.
Here at The Hearing Hub, we ensure thorough and careful earwax removal, prioritising patient comfort throughout the procedure to minimise pain or irritation. In addition to microsuction earwax removal, we also provide expert advice on managing and preventing future earwax buildup. Appointments at our Slough clinic can be booked online or by contacting our team.