What is earwax build-up?
Earwax (also called cerumen) is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It helps protect your ears by trapping dust, dirt, and bacteria, preventing them from reaching the delicate parts of your inner ear. It also acts as a natural moisturiser to stop the ear canal from becoming dry or itchy.
Most of the time, earwax naturally works its way out of the ear. But for some people, earwax buildup can build up faster than it clears, especially if you regularly use:
- Cotton buds (which can push wax further in)
- Earphones or hearing aids
- Earplugs or swim plugs
What are the symptoms of ear wax build-up?
When excessive ear wax builds up and becomes impacted, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms like:
- A blocked or full sensation in the affected ear
- Muffled hearing or temporary hearing loss
- Earache or pain in the ear
- Ringing or buzzing in the ear (tinnitus)
- Dizziness or problems with balance
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, you may benefit from an ear wax treatment to help clear the impacted earwax and make it comfortable again.
When to Get Medical Advice
Ear wax usually clears on its own or with over-the-counter treatments, but you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist if:
- You’ve had symptoms for more than 5 days
- You’re experiencing ear pain, discharge or hearing loss
- Home treatments haven’t worked
- You use hearing aids that are affected by wax
Ear Wax Blockages vs an Ear Infection
Not sure whether you’re dealing with a simple ear wax blockage or an ear infection? Both can cause discomfort and hearing changes, but there are key differences to look out for.
| Symptom | Ear Wax Blockage | Ear Infection |
| Hearing Loss | Gradual and mild | Sudden and more noticeable |
| Pain or Discomfort | Usually mild or none | Sharp, throbbing or persistent |
| Sensation | Fullness or clogged feeling in the ear | Pressure, swelling, or tenderness |
| Discharge | Rare (may have wax visible at ear opening) | Yellow or smelly fluid may leak from ear |
| Fever | No | Often present |
| Itching | Common | Less common |
| Tinnitus (ringing/buzzing) | Can occur | Can occur, especially with inner ear infections |
| Triggers | Use of earphones, cotton buds, or hearing aids | Often follows a cold, sore throat, or upper respiratory infection |
| Balance Issues | Rare | Possible (especially with inner ear infections) |
If you’re still unsure, complete a free online consultation with our pharmacy team. We’ll assess your symptoms and help you choose the right treatment, whether it’s for excess ear wax or an inner ear infection, all from the comfort of your home.
Earwax Removal Options
Earwax treatments soften and break down the wax so it can naturally work its way out or be safely removed.
Over-the-Counter Earwax Drops
We have a range of gentle, clinically proven ear drops that help soften earwax:
- Cerumul Olive Oil earwax drops – natural and moisturising, suitable for regular use
- Waxsol ear drops – helps to break down earwax blockages so it’s easier to remove
These treatments are available without a prescription and are ideal for mild to moderate cases of wax buildup.
Earwax Removal Service in Clinic
Prefer to have the wax removed professionally? We offer ear syringing and microsuction earwax removal at our Oldham clinic. This is a safe, effective and mess-free option performed by trained professionals.
Book an earwax removal appointment today and get same-day relief from blocked ears.
