Earwax is made inside your ears to keep them clean. It usually falls out on its own. Sometimes too much can build up and block the ears.
A build-up of earwax is a common problem. It can often be treated using eardrops bought from a pharmacy.
A build-up of earwax in your ear can cause:
These problems will usually get better once the build up of earwax has been removed.
Do not try to remove a build-up of earwax yourself with your fingers, a cotton bud or any other object. This can damage your ear and push the wax further down.
If the earwax is only causing minor problems, you can try buying some eardrops from a pharmacy. Using drops may make your hearing or symptoms a little worse at first before getting better. These can help soften the earwax so that it falls out naturally.
There are several different types of eardrops you can use, including drops containing:
Eardrops aren’t suitable for everyone and some can irritate the skin. You shouldn’t use eardrops if you have a hole or tear in your eardrum.
Speak to your pharmacist about the right product for you and make sure you read the leaflet that comes with it.
Your GP or practice nurse will look inside your ears to check if they’re blocked. They might carry out some simple hearing tests.
If pharmacy treatment doesn’t work, speak to your GP practice.
Treatments may include:
These treatments are not suitable for everyone. Your doctor can discuss this with you.
If these treatments don’t help, your GP may refer you to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.
Some people regularly get blocked ears because they naturally produce a lot of earwax.
Other causes include:
Earwax can also block your ear if you often insert objects into your ear, such as cotton buds, ear plugs or hearing aids.
Last updated:
28 March 2024