561-782-8408

Share:

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

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.

Starkey

Starkey Hearing Technologies: A Comprehensive Overview Starkey Hearing Technologies, headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, is a leading hearing aid manufacturer committed to delivering exceptional hearing experiences. Global Presence Starkey operates globally, providing innovative hearing solutions across over 100 countries. As one of the Big Five hearing aid manufacturers, it significantly

March 12, 2024

Starkey Signature Series

Starkey Signature Series: The Ultimate in Discreet Hearing Aids The Starkey Signature Series hearing aids offer a blend of advanced technology, comfort, and discretion. Custom Fit and Discreet Design The Signature Series is custom-made to fit your ears, ensuring optimal comfort. These hearing aids are designed to hide discreetly in

March 12, 2024

Starkey Genesis

Starkey Genesis AI Hearing Aids: A New Era of Hearing Technology The Starkey Genesis AI hearing aids represent a significant leap forward in hearing technology. Neuro Sound Technology Genesis AI hearing aids contain innovative Neuro Sound Technology, which allows them to better replicate how the human brain processes sound. By

March 12, 2024