Can Having Too Much Earwax Cause Ear Ringing?
Do you ever experience an unusual ringing or buzzing sound in your ears? This is referred to as tinnitus and can be linked to various problems with one of the most common being excessive earwax. Many people do not understand that the accumulation of wax within the ears can impact their hearing capability and even result in ringing noises. So, can having too much earwax cause ear ringing? The answer is yes. In this article, we will discuss how earwax is related to tinnitus, what its treatment is, and what you should know to maintain good ear hygiene.
Why Does Excess Earwax Cause Tinnitus?
Wax or cerumen is naturally produced by our ears to capture dust, bacteria, and any other foreign particles so as to protect the ear canal. The wax will normally move out of the ear on its own. But if you frequently use earbuds, earplugs, or even cotton swabs that push the wax deeper into the ear, excess buildup can occur.
Excessive build-up of ear wax can put pressure on the eardrum or create a barrier preventing sound from reaching the inner ear. The combination of pressure and blockage can result in a ringing sound, termed tinnitus.
Other Factors That Affect Tinnitus
Tinnitus is often the result of earwax buildup, but other factors that affect include the following:
1. Loud noises: Environments with constant loud sounds, such as concerts or construction sites, can be damaging to ear nerves.
2. Aging: The tiny cells in the ear that help in sound reception slowly damage with older age.
3. Ear infections: Ear infections can cause inflammation which fills ears with fluids leading to poor hearing.
4. Medical conditions: Serious health problems such as high blood pressure, increased cholesterol, diabetes, or hypothyroidism can lead to tinnitus.
5. Medications: Side effects of certain medications such as some antidepressants, antibiotics, or even aspirin include ringing of the ears.
This is why it is crucial to identify other factors before assuming earwax is the only reason.
How Long Does It Take for Tinnitus Caused by Earwax to Go Away?
If earwax is the reason for your tinnitus, the relief is usually faster than you would think after the blockage is removed. Most people notice improvement instantly after it’s safely removed.
However, in certain scenarios, the ear may remain sensitive or the ear ringing may take a few days to subside, particularly if the wax has been lodged there for an extended period of time. Never, under any circumstances, attempt to scoop the insides of your ear out with cotton swabs — this makes things worse.
For best results, using proper Bebird EarSight Plus, or professional removal by your doctor is recommended.
How Do You Stop Tinnitus from Ear Wax?
If excess earwax is the reason behind the ringing in your ears, known as tinnitus, the best solution is to remove the wax. But the removal has to be done very carefully because the ear is a sensitive body part. Any wrong removal tools or sharp objects can injure the ear or push the wax deeper.
Here are some safe and easy ways to stop tinnitus caused by earwax:
1.Use Ear Drops
You might be able to relieve tinnitus symptoms with the help of using Ear Wax cleaning drops. These products can be found in pharmacies and they help to loosen hardened wax deposits in the ears. After a few applications, the excess ear wax naturally falls out. Ear drops typically contain hydrogen peroxide and mineral oil.
2.Try a Warm Water Rinse
After a couple of days of using ear drops, your ear can be gently rinsed with warm water. Using a rubber bulb syringe, you can squirt warm water and then tilt your head to let the water and wax flow out. Gently squeeze the bulb, and remember not to use hot water.
3.Use an Ear Cleaner or Ear Wax Cleaning Tool
Cleaning the ear has been made easier with specially designed tools like Bebird EarSight Plus easily available in the market. A soft spiral-shaped ear wax cleaning tool or a scoop can effortlessly remove the wax without the risk of pushing it deeper. For enhanced safety, use an Bebird EarSight Plus which allows you to see inside the ear while cleaning.
4.Visit a Doctor
If the wax still doesn't come out and you’re still hearing ringing noises, the best option is to consult a doctor. Using special tools, suction, or with the help of Bebird EarSight Plus doctors can safely remove the wax ear.
Normally, after the wax is removed, a person’s hearing is enhanced and the ringing noise quiets down.
FAQ’s
Q: How Do I Know If I Have Earwax Buildup?
Below are some indications that you may be having a wax blockage issue.
1. Hearing loss (temporary or permanent) in one or both ears
2. Pain in the ear or pressure buildup
3. Tinnitus or non external ringing or buzzing
4. Dizziness or balance impairment
5. Itchiness or bad smell from the ear
With an ear camera cleaner, you can easily check for over-accumulation of wax.
Q: What’s the Difference Between Ear Mites and Ear Wax?
Your body produces earwax to safeguard your ears from dirt, and its color is unique to every person - it can be yellow, brown, or even grayish.
Unlike earwax, ear mites are tiny parasites that are more common in pets. They cause extreme inflammation, itching, redness, and dark discharge which is very different from regular wax. Humans are not commonly affected by ear mites, but in rare instances, they can infect people too.
If you don’t know what is in your ear, don’t poke around and consult with a professional.
Final Thoughts
So, to wrap it all up — can having too much earwax cause ear ringing? Yes, it definitely can. When ears are filled with wax, it can press against sensitive areas in the ear leading to hearing problems which results in tinnitus. If ear wax is the reason, it tends to be easily solvable. Take care to remove it safely and don’t use anything that might cause injury to the ear.
Investing in tools like a safe ear cleaner, a smart ear cleaning camera, or a reliable ear wax cleaning tool can help you stay on top of ear hygiene without risking injury. Don’t wait to visit a healthcare professional if the symptoms do not go away, to ensure other issues are not the cause.
Reduced ear problems increase peace of mind and promote better hearing.
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