Causes of Ear Wax Buildup
Ear wax buildup occurs when the ear produces an excessive amount of wax or when the wax becomes hardened and unable to naturally migrate out of the ear canal. Factors that can contribute to ear wax buildup include using cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ears, wearing hearing aids or earplugs regularly, and anatomical variations that narrow the ear canal.
Symptoms of Ear Wax Buildup
Symptoms of ear wax buildup may include earache, feeling of fullness in the ear, temporary hearing loss or muffled hearing, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), itching in the ear canal, and a sensation that something is blocking the ear.
Evaluation and Management
When you visit PrimeCare Urgent Care for concerns related to ear wax buildup, our experienced healthcare providers will conduct a thorough evaluation to assess your symptoms and determine the best course of action. This may include examining the ear canal using an otoscope and possibly recommending treatment options such as:
- Ear Irrigation: A safe and effective procedure to gently flush out excess ear wax using warm water.
- Manual Removal: If necessary, our healthcare providers may use specialized instruments to carefully remove hardened ear wax.
Prevention and Self-Care
To help prevent ear wax buildup, avoid inserting cotton swabs or other objects into the ear canal, as this can push wax deeper and potentially cause injury. If you wear hearing aids or use earplugs, follow proper hygiene practices and cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While ear wax buildup is often manageable, it’s important to seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as persistent ear pain, sudden hearing loss, or discharge from the ear. Our urgent care team is here to provide prompt evaluation and personalized care to address your ear wax concerns.
For expert evaluation and management of ear wax buildup, visit PrimeCare Urgent Care today. Our compassionate team is committed to helping you maintain optimal ear health and overall well-being.