Can earwax cause hearing loss?

Theresa Edwards

Hearing Specialist

Family Audiology and Hearing Centers

Yes, when earwax accumulates and becomes impacted, it can block the ear canal and temporarily reduce your hearing. This is reversible—once a doctor safely removes the excess wax, your hearing typically returns to normal. Symptoms of earwax blockage include muffled hearing, earache, or a sensation that your ear is plugged. Never attempt to remove impacted wax yourself, as this can worsen the blockage or injure your ear.