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Impacted Earwax

What It Is and How to Deal With It

Earwax, technically “cerumen,” is a natural substance produced by the body to protect the ear canal and keep it clean. Sometimes earwax can become impacted, causing a variety of symptoms and complications. In this blog post, we’ll explore what impacted earwax is, how it develops, and how you can deal with it.

What is impacted earwax?

Impacted earwax is a condition in which it accumulates in the ear canal and becomes hard, making it difficult to remove. This can happen when the earwax is not naturally expelled from the ear or pushed further into the ear using cotton swabs or other objects. An ear affected by impacted earwax can cause earache, itching, and hearing loss.

How does earwax become impacted?

One common cause is using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ear canal, which can push the earwax further into the ear. In addition, some people naturally produce more earwax than others, which can increase the risk of impaction. Certain medical conditions, such as eczema or a narrow ear canal, can also contribute to the development of impacted earwax.

What are the symptoms of Impacted Earwax

  • Earache
  • Itching in the ear
  • Decreased hearing or muffled hearing
  • Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
  • Dizziness
  • A feeling of fullness in the ear

How does earwax become impacted?

If you suspect that you have impacted earwax, it’s essential to seek treatment to avoid complications. A healthcare professional can examine your ear and determine the best action. In most cases, earwax can be removed by ear drops to soften the wax, followed by irrigation to flush it out. Sometimes, specialized tools may be used to remove the earwax. Using cotton swabs or other objects to remove the earwax is not recommended, as it can cause further impaction.

At Active Life Hearing, our professionals are trained in earwax removal with the Earigator™. The Earigator™ allows us to perform cerumen removal safely and efficiently.

Designed by an Otologist, the EarigatorTM combines the functions of an otoscope and irrigation into one, providing the most advanced means of earwax removal.

With the EarigatorTM, nurses and clinicians can safely and efficiently remove even the most stubborn ear wax.

Self-contained temperature control regulates the water to body temperature, avoiding any caloric or vertigo side effects.

Pressure controls ensure that the EarigatorTM quickly removes even impacted earwax while never endangering the eardrum.

An Erigator™ treatment in progress

Earigator Demonstration
In conclusion, impacted earwax is a common condition that can cause various symptoms and complications. If you suspect that you have impacted earwax, it’s essential to seek treatment to avoid complications. A healthcare professional can examine your ear and determine the best action. Remember, it’s always best to avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ear as it can push the earwax further into the ear.

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