Earwax

What is earwax?

Earwax, also called cerumen, is a waxy oil that helps protect the structures inside of the ears. It also hydrates your ears and keeps dust, dirt, and germs away from the eardrums to reduce your risk of infections. 

But this wax sometimes builds up and can block the ear canal, leading to hearing problems and other complications when left untreated. See Dr. Shapiro at the first sign of an ear problem.

What are the symptoms of earwax buildup or blockages?

Excessive earwax buildup may lead to:

• Hearing loss
• Earaches
• Dizziness
• Ear fullness
• Noises in the ear (tinnitus)
• Sensation of your ear being plugged

Older earwax falls out naturally over time, and your body makes new wax to replace it. So, sticking objects (such as cotton swabs) in your ears isn’t necessary and can even damage the ears. But excess earwax can cause impaction and sometimes requires a specialist’s care.

What can cause earwax buildup or blockages?

The cause isn’t fully clear, but earwax buildup risk factors may include:

• Genetics
• Hearing aides
• Earbuds
• Excess ear hair

If your earwax smells foul or you develop a fever or ear pain, this could be a sign of an ear infection requiring medical attention. 

How is excessive earwax diagnosed?

Dr. Shapiro diagnoses earwax buildup by discussing your or your child’s medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle, and examining the ears. He determines if you or your loved one is a candidate for earwax removal at the Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida office.

How is excess earwax removed?

Your or your child’s individualized earwax removal treatment plan might consist of:

• Ear drops
• Baby oil
• Mineral oil
• Olive oil
• Glycerin
• Water 
• Saline
• Suction
• Curete wax removal

Dr. Shapiro offers various methods to safely and painlessly remove excess or built-up earwax. He follows up to ensure your or your child’s ears stay healthy. 

The Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida also offers ear tube placement and treatment for ringing in the ears (tinnitus), swimmer’s ear, and ear infections. 

Have your or your child’s earwax evaluated with Dr. Shapiro at the Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.