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Omnicare Pharmacy
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Why You Might Have Sudden Earwax Buildup – And How to Prevent It
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Why do I have so much earwax all of a sudden?”, you’re not alone. While earwax (also known as cerumen) is a natural and essential part of ear health, a sudden increase in production or noticeable buildup can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, disruptive to your hearing.
At Omnicare Pharmacy, including our Causewayside branch, we regularly help patients manage earwax-related concerns with professional advice and safe removal services. In this blog, we’ll explore the common causes of sudden earwax buildup, how to prevent earwax buildup, and when to seek professional care.
Content Overview:
Understanding Earwax and Its Role
Earwax is produced by glands in the ear canal to trap dust, dirt, and harmful microorganisms, helping to protect the inner ear. Normally, it migrates to the outer ear and falls out naturally. However, several factors can interrupt this process, leading to excess wax accumulation.
Why Do I Have So Much Ear Wax All of a Sudden?
Several lifestyle and environmental factors can trigger an unexpected increase in earwax production or lead to impaction.
1. Frequent Use of Earphones or Earbuds
Wearing headphones or earbuds for long periods can push earwax deeper into the canal and block its natural expulsion. This habit also creates a warm, closed environment, which may stimulate excess wax production.
2. Use of Hearing Aids
Similar to earphones, hearing aids can obstruct the natural movement of wax and cause it to build up in the canal over time.
3. Over cleaning the Ears
Ironically, trying too hard to clean your ears, especially with cotton buds, can remove protective wax and stimulate the glands to produce more, or push wax deeper into the canal, causing blockages.
4. Skin Conditions or Infections
People with eczema, psoriasis, or chronic ear infections may experience increased wax production due to irritation in the ear canal.
5. Narrow or Curved Ear Canals
Some individuals are anatomically more prone to wax buildup. Narrow or curvy canals can trap wax and make natural expulsion more difficult.
6. Ageing
As we age, earwax tends to become drier and harder, making it more likely to accumulate and become impacted.
How to Prevent Ear Wax Build-Up
While earwax buildup can be uncomfortable, there are practical steps you can take to prevent it from becoming a regular issue.
1. Limit Use of Earbuds and Headphones
Take breaks from using in-ear devices and clean them regularly to reduce the introduction of bacteria and debris.
2. Avoid Cotton Buds
Cotton buds are a common cause of wax impaction. Let your ears clean themselves naturally, or speak to a pharmacist about safer alternatives like ear drops.
3. Use Softening Drops Periodically
Using a few drops of olive oil or over-the-counter cerumenolytic drops can help keep earwax soft and allow it to exit naturally, especially if you’re prone to dryness or blockage.
4. Schedule Regular Ear Check-Ups
Just as you would visit a dentist for routine care, it’s wise to have your ears checked occasionally, particularly if you wear hearing aids or use earphones often. At Omnicare Pharmacy, we provide ear health assessments and microsuction earwax removal across our local branches, including Causewayside.
When to Seek Professional Help
Some signs indicate it’s time to visit a professional for safe earwax removal:
- Sudden hearing loss or muffled sounds
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- A feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear
- Ear pain or itchiness
- Repeated blockage despite using drops
Professional methods like microsuction are quick, safe, and effective for clearing wax with minimal discomfort and no water involved.
Why Choose Omnicare Pharmacy?
At Omnicare Pharmacy, we provide expert ear care services, including:
- Ear health checks
- Microsuction ear wax removal (the safest method for clearing blockages)
- Personalised advice on how to prevent earwax build-up
- Convenient appointments across Edinburgh, Uphall, and Causewayside
Our trained clinicians use modern equipment to ensure gentle and effective care, with minimal disruption to your day.
Final Thoughts
While sudden earwax buildup can be alarming, it’s usually due to lifestyle or environmental triggers that are easy to manage with the right habits. Avoiding cotton buds, using earphones wisely, and scheduling regular ear checks are simple ways to maintain healthy ears.
If you’re experiencing blocked ears or persistent symptoms, visit your local Omnicare Pharmacy branch, including Causewayside, for safe and professional support. Don’t let earwax disrupt your daily life. Book your appointment today.
Please note: Services may vary by location. Not all services are available at all Omnicare Pharmacy branches – please check with your local branch for details.
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