Many people ask, can earwax cause headaches? The answer is “yes” Actually, if wax accumulates, it is possible to block the ear canal. This can create pressure in your head which would cause discomfort. Sometimes this pressure can become widespread leading to headaches. While most people do not associate head pain with the ears, hidden causes lurk such as earwax. This article will cover what earwax is along with its causes, the signs to look for, and how to remove it safely using an Bebird EarSight Complete.

What is Earwax? 

Earwax is a somewhat sticky and yellow-brown substance known as cerumen which is produced by glands in the ear canal. Earwax acts as a protective shield for the ear by preventing dust, dirt, and infectious agents from penetrating deeper into the ear canal.

It further prevents the skin inside the ear from drying out and becoming itchy, as well as moist. Under normal circumstances, wax will be removed from the ear as a person talks, chews, or yawns. But sometimes, it builds up and stays inside, which can cause problems.

In some individuals, an unremoved buildup can lead to pressure and hearing difficulty, or even headaches.

What Causes Excessive Earwax?

Earwax buildup or excessive earwax can occur due to many factors. Some individuals have a higher natural wax production than others. This can be inherited or simply due to an overactive wax gland. Also, people who frequently utilize hearing aids or earphones tend to develop excess earwax because these devices cover the ear canal and prevent the wax from coming out naturally.

The use of cotton swabs is an increasingly popular method of cleaning ears and surprisingly, this makes the situation worse. Rather than cleaning away wax, cotton swabs tend to push it further in. The elderly suffer from drier wax which is harder to remove. Skin disorders may also lead to a narrower canal which stops wax from venting effectively.

If wax cannot come out naturally, it stays in the ear and begins to harden. This creates blockage, pressure, and even pain. If the pressure becomes strong enough, it can lead to dizziness or a headache.

What Are The Signs Of Earwax Build-Up?

It’s not always easy to know when you have too much earwax. However, there are some signs which alert you of an underlying problem.

The most typical one is the perception of fullness, pressure, or something ‘stuck’ in your ear. Sounds also begin to lose their clarity, and hearing becomes somewhat blocked or muffled.

Other symptoms include ringing in the ears, or tinnitus. Some people begin to feel lightheaded or have difficulty maintaining balance as well. If left unattended, the wax buildup could lead to excessive pain or even headaches.

Mild discharge, itching, or odor emanating from the ear may also signify an earwax buildup. In cases where more than one of the aforementioned symptoms is present, self-checks may prove beneficial.

In most scenarios, wax removal tends to provide relief almost instantaneously. The right tools, such as an Bebird EarSight Complete, can prevent problems and assist in avoiding complications.

How to Clean the Earwax When You Feel Headaches

Don’t worry if you think your headache is earwax-related. There are effective ways to clean your ears safely and easily at home. Follow these methods to clean your ears with care:  

Use Wax-Softening Drops

First, use earwax removal drops to soften the wax. You can get these at any pharmacy. Put a few drops on the affected ear and lie down for about 5 minutes. This will help to loosen stubborn wax so that it can be removed easily.  

Rinse with Warm Water

After waiting for a day or two, rinse your ear with warm water. You can squirt water into the ear with a rubber bulb syringe. Let the water drain out along with the wax.  

Use a Safe Ear Cleaner

Avoid using cotton swabs. Rather, an ear cleaner that is designed specifically for safe home use should be used. These tools do not go very deep which ensures safety. A spiral or rubber-tipped ear wax cleaning tool works well.

Try an Ear Cleaning Camera

If you're curious about what’s inside your ear, an Bebird EarSight Complete can help. This device displays your eardrum in real-time right on your phone. It assists you in carefully self-cleaning.

Use an Ear Camera Cleaner

An ear camera cleaner helps in removing wax more accurately and, safely, as it combines a cleaning tip with video footage. It is safe for anyone who desires precision as they perform ear cleaning.

When to See a Doctor

Consult a doctor when home cleaning methods no longer help and pain is present. A doctor can use specialized tools to remove wax and check whether the headache results from something else.

Best Earwax Cleaning Tools Recommended

Cleaning earwax is easy with the right tools. Some of the most popular ones include:

1. Bulb Syringe: A bulb syringe is used to gently flush your ear with warm water. This method is effective and inexpensive.
2. Ear Cleaner: Ear cleaners with soft tips or spiral shapes can safely remove loose wax from the outer ear. This is a better alternative than cotton swabs.
3. Ear Wax Cleaning Tools: These tools safely scoop out wax without injuring your ear canal using soft materials which ensures comfort and safety.
4. Ear Cleaning Camera: These tools allow you to see a video of your ear in real time which enhances precision while cleaning.
5. Ear Camera Cleaners: These tools bring together a camera and a cleaning tool to seamlessly allow you to see while you clean.

Final Thoughts

While earwax is helpful for one’s ear health, it can lead to complications if not removed properly. Having too much of it can lead to excess pressure in the ear which can then lead to headaches. Fortunately, this is one of those problems which are easier to tackle. Most of the time, with proper care and the right equipment such as an ear cleaner, an ear wax cleaning tool, or even an ear cleaning camera, you can manage it at home. If symptoms do not get better or rather worsen, then consulting a doctor is always the best option. Keeping the ears clean can help stop headaches in the future.

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