Earwax develops from a natural process that protects the ears by trapping particles from dust, bacteria, microorganisms or other substances. The glands lining the ear canal secrete the wax. Earwax, technically called cerumen, prevents damage to the eardrum and other structures in the ear. The wax usually leaves the ear opening or falls out as new wax develops, the Mayo Clinic explains. Sometimes excess wax develops and blocks the ear canal. Several causes of wax buildup may lead to hearing problems.
Removal Attempts
People who try to remove earwax buildup by using cotton swabs or other items can push the wax deeper into the ear canal, impeding natural removal, Medline Plus notes. People have been known to take dangerous measures, such as using pencils, bobby pins or other items, to remove wax buildup. Sometimes safe home remedies, including a cotton ball soaked in water or hydrogen peroxide squeezed into the ear, may help. If not, a doctor can remove the excess wax with a solution or prescribe medication that will take care of the problem.
Ear Devices
People with hearing aids or earplugs are more likely to develop wax buildup, the Cleveland Clinic points out. The devices may block natural wax removal if worn for long periods of time, leading to continued buildup of normal wax production. The American Academy of Otolaryngology advises people to wait for the wax to come out naturally unless there are noticeable problems, including a malfunctioning hearing aid, earache or hearing loss. A sensation of fullness in the ear where the device is plugged, worsening hearing loss or tinnitus, which causes continual ringing-like noise in the ear, are other signs of wax buildup due to plugs or aids.
Natural Buildup
Some people are prone to excess earwax buildup. Debris picked up by earwax may stay in the ear canal over time, eventually causing blockage. Hard earwax may develop from dry, flaky skin in conditions such as eczema, according to Reporternews.com, the website of the Reporter-News in Abilene, Texas. Some people may have excess hair growth in the ear canal, slowing the movement of earwax. As people age, substances in the ear canal may change, making it difficult for earwax to flow through the ear canal properly. People may also have ear canals shaped in a way that interferes with natural wax removal, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
