Hearing is one of our most vital senses. It allows us to communicate, connect with loved ones, and remain aware of the world around us. Yet, many people in the UK experience hearing loss at some point in their lives. While age-related hearing decline is common, one of the most overlooked and easily treatable causes is impacted earwax.
At Better Ears UK, we frequently see patients who panic when they suddenly can’t hear properly, fearing permanent hearing loss. The truth is, in many cases, the problem is not as serious as it seems—blocked ear canals due to wax build-up are to blame. Fortunately, this type of hearing loss is usually temporary and reversible.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
- The connection between hearing loss and earwax
- Symptoms of impacted wax
- Risks of ignoring blocked ears
- Why microsuction is the safest solution
- How Better Ears UK helps you regain clear hearing—whether at home or in one of our clinics
What is Impacted Earwax?
Earwax (cerumen) is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It protects the ear by trapping dust, debris, and bacteria. Normally, earwax makes its way out of the ear naturally. However, in some cases, it builds up and becomes impacted, blocking the ear canal.
Factors that contribute to impacted wax include:
- Using cotton buds (pushing wax deeper)
- Wearing hearing aids or earplugs regularly
- Narrow or curved ear canals
- Producing excess wax naturally
- Age (wax becomes harder with age)
When wax completely blocks the ear canal, sound waves cannot travel properly, leading to temporary hearing loss.
Symptoms of Earwax-Related Hearing Loss
Impacted wax doesn’t just cause muffled hearing. It can trigger a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:
- Sudden hearing loss in one or both ears
- Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Dizziness or imbalance
- Itching or discomfort
- Earache or mild pain
Many patients describe it as “hearing through water” or “like wearing earplugs.” If untreated, it can affect day-to-day life—struggling with conversations, watching TV at higher volumes, or feeling disconnected in social settings.
Can Earwax Cause Permanent Hearing Loss?
One of the biggest concerns for patients is whether impacted wax can cause permanent damage.
The good news is:
- In most cases, hearing returns immediately after wax removal.
- Permanent hearing loss from wax alone is very rare.
However, leaving blocked ears untreated can increase the risk of:
- Ear infections (due to trapped bacteria)
- Damage to the ear canal
- Worsening tinnitus
- Balance issues
That’s why it’s important to seek professional care rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.
Why Microsuction is the Best Solution
There are various ways to remove earwax, but not all are safe or effective. Over-the-counter drops may soften wax, but they don’t always clear the blockage. Ear syringing, once common in the NHS, is now less recommended due to risks like eardrum perforation.
At Better Ears UK, we use microsuction, which is widely recognised as the gold standard for earwax removal:
- Safe – Performed under direct vision with a microscope
- Quick – Usually takes just 15–20 minutes
- Painless – Most patients feel immediate relief
- Effective – Works even for hard or impacted wax
Whether in our UK clinics or through our convenient home visit service, microsuction ensures your ears are cleared in the safest way possible.
Hearing Loss vs. Earwax Blockage – How to Tell the Difference
Not all hearing loss is caused by earwax. However, there are signs that point towards wax blockage rather than permanent hearing damage:
- Sudden onset (hearing loss develops quickly, not gradually)
- Only one ear affected (common with wax)
- Fullness or pressure sensation
- Immediate improvement after wax removal
If you’re unsure, our specialists at Better Ears UK can assess your ears using an otoscope and confirm whether wax is the issue.
Earwax Removal at Home – Is It Safe?
Many people attempt DIY methods like:
- Cotton buds
- Ear candles
- Home syringing kits
Unfortunately, these methods are often unsafe and can push wax deeper, burn the ear, or even damage the eardrum.
Instead, it’s best to leave it to professionals. With Better Ears UK, you have two options:
- Clinic Appointments – Visit one of our professional centres across the UK.
- Home Visits – If you prefer convenience, our specialists come to you with full equipment.
Preventing Earwax-Related Hearing Loss
While some people naturally produce more wax, there are steps you can take to minimise the risk of blockages:
- Avoid inserting objects into your ears (cotton buds, hairpins, etc.)
- Use ear drops occasionally if prone to blockages (olive oil-based drops)
- Book regular check-ups if you wear hearing aids
- Stay alert to changes in hearing, pressure, or tinnitus
Remember: Prevention is always easier than cure.
Why Choose Better Ears UK?
When it comes to your hearing, you deserve expert care. At Better Ears UK:
✅ We specialise in microsuction earwax removal
✅ We offer both clinic and home visits across the UK
✅ Same-day and emergency appointments available
✅ Friendly, highly trained ear care specialists
✅ Affordable pricing with no hidden fees
Most importantly, patients often report an instant improvement in hearing after treatment.
Real-Life Experience – Patient Story
One of our patients, Sarah from London, came to us after suddenly losing hearing in her left ear. She was worried it was permanent hearing loss. Within 20 minutes of microsuction, her ear was clear, and her hearing returned instantly.
Her words: “I thought I was going deaf, but it was just earwax! The team at Better Ears UK were so professional, and I could hear perfectly again straight after the procedure.”
Stories like Sarah’s are common—and they highlight why recognising earwax as a cause of hearing loss is so important.
When to Seek Immediate Help
While earwax is usually harmless, seek urgent professional help if you experience:
- Severe ear pain
- Sudden hearing loss with no obvious cause
- Discharge from the ear
- Dizziness with nausea
These may indicate other ear conditions that require prompt treatment.
Conclusion
Hearing loss is often frightening, but not all cases are permanent. Impacted earwax is one of the most common—and most treatable—causes of temporary hearing loss in the UK. With professional microsuction earwax removal, you can restore your hearing quickly and safely.
At Better Ears UK, we make ear care simple, accessible, and effective—whether you prefer visiting us in-clinic or having a specialist come to your home.
Call to Action
Don’t let earwax stand in the way of clear hearing. Book your earwax removal appointment today with Better Ears UK.
🌐 Visit us at www.betterears.org
Clear hearing is just one appointment away.
