Causes of Earwax Build-Up
Earwax (cerumen) is a natural substance that protects the ear canal by trapping dust and preventing infections. In most people, it moves out of the ear naturally. But sometimes, earwax builds up and causes blockages, leading to hearing loss, discomfort, or ringing in the ears.
At Ear Wax Removal Devon, we help patients across North Devon with safe, professional ear cleaning.
Many ask: “Why do my ears get blocked so often?” — and the answer lies in understanding the causes of earwax build-up.
How Earwax Normally Works
Your body produces earwax to:
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Protect the ear canal from dust, dirt, and bacteria
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Moisturise the skin inside your ear
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Help prevent ear infections
Normally, earwax dries, flakes, and falls out on its own.
But if this process is disrupted, the wax can build up, harden, and cause blockages.
The Main Causes of Earwax Build-Up
1. Overproduction of Earwax
Some people’s glands produce more earwax than others. If production is faster than clearance, blockages can happen regularly.
2. Narrow or Hairy Ear Canals
If your ear canals are naturally narrow, curved, or hairy, wax may have difficulty moving out. This makes you more prone to blockages.
3. Hearing Aids and Earplugs
Anything placed inside the ear canal, such as hearing aids, in-ear headphones, or earplugs, can push wax deeper and prevent it from clearing naturally.
4. Age-Related Changes
As we age, earwax often becomes drier and harder. This makes it more likely to compact and block the ear canal, which is why older adults are especially prone to build-up.
5. Improper Ear Cleaning
Using cotton buds, hairpins, or ear candles often makes the problem worse. Instead of removing wax, these methods push it further in, compacting it against the eardrum. Ear candles are also unsafe and ineffective.
6. Ear Infections and Skin Conditions
Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or chronic ear infections can alter earwax production and cause repeated blockages.
Why Some People Get Blocked Ears More Often
Recurring earwax build-up can be linked to:
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Genetics (some people are naturally more prone)
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Regular use of headphones or earplugs
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Frequent swimming, which can affect the ear canal environment
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Underlying skin or health conditions
If you find yourself needing frequent ear cleaning, it’s best to have regular check-ups and safe removal by a professional.
Risks of Leaving Earwax Untreated
Untreated earwax build-up can lead to:
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Persistent hearing loss
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Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing sounds)
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Earache and discomfort
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Increased risk of ear infection
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Dizziness or balance issues
Prevention Tips
You may not be able to stop earwax from forming, but you can reduce the risk of blockages:
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Avoid using cotton buds inside the ear canal
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Use olive oil drops occasionally if prone to wax build-up
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Keep hearing aids clean and have regular ear checks
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Seek professional removal instead of home remedies
How We Treat Earwax Build-Up
At Ear Wax Removal Devon, we use safe, effective methods recommended by ear care specialists:
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Microsuction – A precise suction device removes wax under magnification.
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Irrigation – A gentle stream of warm water flushes out softened wax.
Treatment takes around 20–30 minutes, and most patients notice instant improvement in hearing.
Why Choose Us?
Fully registered and Insured
Trained & experienced
practitioners
Same-Day Appointments
Fast relief from blocked
ears
Safe and effective treatments
Experienced in earwax
removal