While a healthy amount of earwax is essential for maintaining ear health, excessive buildup can be detrimental and lead to various ear-related issues. One common cause of excessive earwax accumulation are changes in air pressure, which can occur in environments such as underground trains, tunnels, and aeroplanes. These fluctuations in pressure can push earwax further into the ear canal, making it more difficult for the body to naturally expel it, potentially leading to blockages and discomfort.
For those based in London who suspect they have an excessive buildup of earwax can seek professional earwax removal at The Hearing Hub Canary Wharf clinic. In this post, we look into how and why changes in air pressure can contribute to earwax buildup, the types of pressure changes that cause this, and signs you are experiencing excessive earwax accumulation.
What is Air Pressure and How Does it Lead to Earwax Buildup?
Air pressure is the force exerted by the weight of the air in the atmosphere. As we move through different environments with varying air pressure, such as when travelling, can cause changes in the ear canal, affecting the balance and causing earwax to move or compact in ways that lead to buildup. Fluctuations in air pressure, especially rapid changes, can create a vacuum-like effect in the ear, which may push earwax deeper into the ear canal. This can make it more difficult for the body to expel the wax naturally. The pressure difference between the inside and outside of the ear ultimately contributes to earwax buildup, causing discomfort and possible complications if left untreated.
Scenarios Where Air Pressure Changes Contribute to Earwax Buildup
Whilst you might not think air pressure has been affecting your ear health, the reality can be quite different. There are a range of common scenarios that many people experience daily where air pressure changes occur and can contribute to earwax buildup. Below, we explore three common situations where this can happen:
Underground Trains
Air pressure changes are common on underground trains, where the train moves through tunnels and the pressure fluctuates. These pressure shifts can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, making it harder for the body to naturally clear the wax. Over time, this can lead to a buildup of earwax, causing discomfort and potential hearing issues.
Airplane Travel
When flying, rapid changes in altitude and air pressure can affect the ear’s ability to regulate itself. This can cause earwax to shift and accumulate in the ear canal, creating a blockage. The pressure change during both ascent and descent can lead to discomfort and earwax compaction, which may require professional removal.
Lifts or High Altitude Locations
Just like airplane travel, using lifts in tall buildings or travelling to high-altitude locations (such as mountain climbing) can expose you to changes in air pressure. These fluctuations can have a similar effect on the ear, causing earwax to shift and accumulate, leading to potential ear health problems if not addressed.
Signs of Earwax Build-Up Due to Air Pressure Changes
Although it can be difficult to determine if earwax buildup is caused by air pressure changes, there are several signs to consider. From a sensation of pressure in the ear to muffled sounds, these are all potential indicators. Below, we explore some common signs to look for:
- Sensation of Fullness or Pressure in the Ear: A common symptom of earwax buildup, especially after experiencing air pressure changes, is a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. This sensation is similar to how you might feel when descending from a flight and may persist long after the change in air pressure.
- Difficulty Hearing or Muffled Sounds: A decrease in your hearing ability, particularly following travel or exposure to fluctuating air pressure, earwax buildup could be the culprit. The pressure and blockage caused by excess wax can muffle sounds, making it harder to hear clearly.
- Pain or Discomfort in the Ear: Excessive earwax can lead to pain or tenderness in the ear canal, which may become worse during or after exposure to air pressure changes. This discomfort can range from mild irritation to more severe pain, especially when the pressure is not balanced.
- Tinnitus (Ringing or Buzzing Sounds): Persistent ringing, buzzing, or other unusual noises in the ears, particularly when it’s quiet, could be a sign that earwax buildup has been triggered or worsened by air pressure changes. Tinnitus is often aggravated by blockages in the ear canal, leading to these distracting sounds.
- Frequent Need to Adjust Ears or Jaw: Constantly adjusting ear position or moving the jaw to relieve pressure could indicate earwax buildup. The shifting air pressure may cause the ear to try and balance itself, and the wax buildup can exacerbate this feeling of discomfort.
Visit The Hearing Hub for Professional Ear Wax Removal
The Hearing Hub’s team of highly trained audiologists provides a range of the safest and most effective methods of earwax removal. Whether earwax accumulation is due to air pressure changes or has simply built up over time, our expert team at the Canary Wharf clinic can assist. We ensure that earwax is removed thoroughly and professionally and offer post-treatment ear care advice to help prevent future buildup.
The Hearing Hub prides itself on delivering the highest standards of ear care in London at its Canary Wharf clinic, tailoring each earwax removal appointment to the client’s individual needs. More information about the Canary Wharf, London clinic is available on our website or you can contact our team.