How do I know if I have earwax buildup?
Symptoms of earwax buildup, or cerumen impaction, may include earache, a feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear, hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness, or an ear infection. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an audiologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can examine your ears using specialized instruments and determine whether excess earwax is causing the symptoms. Attempting to remove earwax at home using cotton swabs or other objects is not recommended, as it can push the wax deeper or cause injury to the ear canal. Professional removal methods, such as irrigation or manual removal by a healthcare provider, are safer and more effective.