Ear wax (cerumen) contains antibacterial agents and plays a vital part in preventing infections in your ears. It also traps dust and other foreign bodies, as well as keeping the skin in your ears moisturised. Small amounts of ear wax are normal and healthy, and it usually works its way out of your ear on its own.
However, ear wax can sometimes block your ear, bringing on symptoms including temporary hearing loss, ringing or itchiness. This is most commonly caused by it being pushed into the ear canal by a cotton bud or similar items.
The ear is an extremely sensitive and delicate organ, so wax should only ever be removed by a trained, experienced professional – please never try to do it yourself. Fewer and fewer GP surgeries now provide ear wax removal, but our expert audiologist is available to help you with your hearing needs.