Hearing Loss or Ear Clogged With Wax? Here’s How to Tell
Dr. Marie Vetter-Toalson Au.D.
Published September 16, 2020
Do you find yourself straining to understand what someone has said? Or that you need to turn your television up just a little bit louder, so it sounds clearer to you? It’s possible you’re experiencing the effects of hearing loss, but it could also be something much more simple: a buildup of earwax.
For some, it can be challenging to tell the difference between the two. In this article, we are going to give you some knowledge about each and what makes them different. That way, you understand if your ears need deep cleaning or if you should be having a discussion with your doctor about potential hearing loss.
Is My Ear Clogged With Wax?
The purpose of earwax is to act as a protective barrier that keeps things from traveling down into your ear canal and getting trapped. Things such as dust and other particles could cause damage to your middle ear if they become lodged in the canal.
Some people produce more earwax than others and find that their earwax can occasionally prevent them from hearing sounds and people correctly. One potential cause of earwax buildup is cleaning your ears improperly.
Many people assume that using a Q-tip is beneficial for cleaning your ears, but when used to clean the inner canal, it can negatively impact your hearing because it packs the earwax down into the ear. Over time, the earwax becomes so thick that it prevents sound waves from traveling inside of the ear canal properly.
Truth is, it is quite difficult to know for certain whether someone is starting to experience signs of hearing loss or earwax build-up. However, usually any feeling of aural fullness or a crackling sound may be indicative of earwax build up and not hearing loss.
How To Remove Earwax
There are some ways that you can remove earwax. These include:
Drops purchased over the counter that soften the earwax. Once the earwax has been softened, it will begin to drain outside of the ear on its own.
Making an appointment at our office to have one of the audiologists remove the earwax.
Is It Hearing Loss?
The most common sign of hearing loss is difficulty hearing sounds or people talking. The build-up of earwax within the ear is a form of temporary hearing loss that can easily be treated. Other types of hearing loss can’t be reversed, but there are ways to help improve the sounds that someone hears, such as the use of hearing aids.
Can You Hear Me Now?
We recommend that you visit an audiologist if you’re unsure if you have an ear clogged with wax or are experiencing symptoms of hearing loss. The audiologist will be able to examine your ears, check your hearing, and give you a definite diagnosis about what’s going on.
If you found this article helpful and are in need of an audiologist in the Chicagoland area, get the conversation started with one of our specialists.
About Dr. Marie Vetter-Toalson Au.D.
Dr. Marie Vetter-Toalson Au.D. is the owner of Chicago Hearing Services and a Doctor of Audiology dedicated to empowering her patients and the public with greater knowledge and education around hearing health.
Lenire is a treatment device proven to reduce the severity of tinnitus that can be used from the comfort of your home. Click below to learn more and request an appointment!
health, ear, disease, sound, noise, hearing test, audiology, speech, presbycusis, otitis media, eardrum, middle ear, blood, therapy, brain, earwax, hearing, infant, health care, outer ear, nerve, hearing aid, medication, music, language, bone, headphones, information, auditory system, audiogram, risk, background noise, health care provider, sign language, screening, pregnancy, health insurance, antibiotic, attention, canal, exam, injury, earmuffs, ossicles, surgery, centers for disease control and prevention, vaccine, national institute for occupational safety and health, signal, language development, fluid, cytomegalovirus, measles, medicine, gene, wax, pressure, communication, audiometry, fatigue, radio, eustachian tube, hypertension, vibration, occupational safety and health, fever, pitch, auditory brainstem response, herpes, birth weight, throat, american sign language, sense of balance, auditory cortex, scar, advertising, telephone, ototoxicity, aspirin, sounds, hearing loss hearing, hearing aids, signs, aging, healthy aging, healthy, skip to content, hearing aids hearing, decibel, blood pressure, brainstem, construction, cell, cotton swab, skin, pain, fungus, dermatitis, otorhinolaryngology, bacteria, itch, cotton, oil, ear candling, color, hair, gland, debris, swimming, inflammation, dizziness, bleeding, perforated eardrum, allergy, influenza, nursing, jaw, dust, physician, moisture, irrigation, genetics, syringe, type 2 diabetes, exercise, mba, healthcare, cough, secretion, mineral oil, candle, alcohol, tissue, burn, ulcerative colitis, body odor, hydrogen peroxide, heat, sweat gland, physical examination, primary care, research, menopause, clinic, cholesterol, vacuum, mixture, irritation, nutrition, psoriatic arthritis, olive oil, diet, cholesteatoma, patient, united kingdom, body mass index, anatomy, insurance, ageing, shower, water, rubbing alcohol, hygiene, breastfeeding, odor, vinegar, mayo clinic, sodium bicarbonate, saline, east asian people, stress, hydrogen, insect, common cold, h2o2 for ear cleaning, vestibular schwannoma, vertigo, medical emergency, busy, circulatory system, conversation, cleveland, sound localization, skull, otosclerosis, labyrinthitis, emergency, microphone, drug, cros hearing aid, ohio, dementia, snowmobile, quality of life, deafness, ears
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if Im losing hearing in one ear?
Signs that you may be losing hearing in one ear include difficulty understanding speech, a feeling of fullness or pressure in that ear, or sounds appearing quieter than in the other ear. If you notice these symptoms, consult a professional for evaluation.
What is the first sign of hearing loss?
The first sign of hearing loss is often difficulty hearing conversations, particularly in noisy environments. Individuals may notice they frequently ask others to repeat themselves or struggle to follow discussions.
What are the physical signs of hearing loss?
The physical signs of hearing loss include difficulty hearing conversations, needing to raise the volume on devices, and frequently asking others to repeat themselves. Additionally, you may notice a ringing in the ears or increased sensitivity to certain sounds.
What are the symptoms of partial hearing loss in one ear?
The symptoms of partial hearing loss in one ear include difficulty hearing sounds, trouble understanding conversations, a sense of fullness in the ear, and increased sensitivity to certain noises.
What is the first symptom of hearing loss in one ear?
The first symptom of hearing loss in one ear is often a noticeable decrease in the ability to hear sounds or conversations clearly on that side, which may lead to difficulty understanding speech or perceiving certain frequencies.
What are the common signs of hearing loss in adults?
The common signs of hearing loss in adults include difficulty understanding conversations, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, turning up the volume on devices, and experiencing muffled sounds. If these symptoms arise, consulting a professional is advisable.
Can earwax cause hearing loss in one ear only?
Earwax can indeed cause hearing loss in one ear only. When excessive buildup occurs, it may block sound transmission, leading to temporary hearing impairment in the affected ear.
What are the earliest signs of hearing loss in one ear?
The earliest signs of hearing loss in one ear include difficulty hearing conversations, a sensation of fullness or pressure in the affected ear, and an increased volume preference for sounds. If you notice these symptoms, consult a professional for evaluation.
How can I test my hearing at home?
Testing your hearing at home can be done using online hearing tests or apps that play sounds at various frequencies. Simply follow the instructions provided and listen carefully for any sounds you may not hear clearly.
What should I do if I suspect hearing loss?
If you suspect hearing loss, it's important to schedule an appointment with an audiologist for a comprehensive evaluation. Early assessment can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment options for your hearing health.
Can earwax affect hearing in one ear?
Earwax can indeed affect hearing in one ear. When earwax builds up, it can block sound waves, leading to reduced hearing ability in the affected ear.
What age is hearing loss most common?
Hearing loss is most common in older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above. However, it can also affect younger individuals due to various factors, including noise exposure and genetics.
How to recognize symptoms of hearing loss?
The symptoms of hearing loss can be recognized by difficulty hearing conversations, frequently asking people to repeat themselves, and needing to increase the volume of devices. If you notice these signs, consulting a professional is recommended.
What steps to take for hearing loss diagnosis?
The steps to take for hearing loss diagnosis include scheduling an appointment with an audiologist, undergoing a comprehensive hearing evaluation, and discussing any symptoms or concerns to determine the appropriate treatment options.
What causes sudden hearing loss in one ear?
Sudden hearing loss in one ear can be caused by various factors, including viral infections, acoustic trauma, Meniere's disease, or circulatory problems. Prompt evaluation by an audiologist is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Are there early signs of hearing problems?
Early signs of hearing problems include difficulty understanding conversations, needing to raise the volume on devices, and experiencing muffled sounds. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to consult a professional for evaluation.
What tests diagnose unilateral hearing loss?
The tests that diagnose unilateral hearing loss include pure-tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and tympanometry. These assessments help audiologists determine the type and severity of hearing loss in one ear.
Can allergies contribute to hearing difficulties?
Allergies can indeed contribute to hearing difficulties. They may cause inflammation and fluid buildup in the ears, leading to temporary hearing loss or discomfort. Consulting an audiologist can help address these issues effectively.
How often should I check my hearing?
The frequency of hearing checks should be based on individual risk factors, but generally, it's recommended to have your hearing evaluated every one to three years, or more often if you notice changes in your hearing.
What medical professionals assess hearing loss?
The medical professionals who assess hearing loss are audiologists and otolaryngologists (ENT specialists). These experts conduct comprehensive evaluations to determine the nature and extent of hearing impairment and recommend appropriate treatment options.
What lifestyle changes can help with hearing health?
Lifestyle changes that can help with hearing health include protecting your ears from loud noises, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, avoiding smoking, and managing stress levels. Regular exercise and routine hearing check-ups are also beneficial.
How does noise exposure relate to hearing loss?
Noise exposure is closely linked to hearing loss, as prolonged or intense sounds can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, leading to permanent hearing impairment. Protecting your ears from loud environments is essential for maintaining hearing health.
What role does genetics play in hearing loss?
Genetics play a significant role in hearing loss, as hereditary factors can lead to various types of auditory impairments. Certain genetic mutations may predispose individuals to age-related hearing loss or congenital conditions affecting hearing ability.
When should I consult a hearing specialist?
Consulting a hearing specialist is essential when you experience persistent hearing difficulties, sudden changes in hearing, or symptoms like ear pain or fullness. Early intervention can help address potential issues effectively.
How is earwax related to hearing impairment?
Earwax buildup can lead to hearing impairment by blocking sound waves from reaching the eardrum. This obstruction can cause temporary hearing loss, highlighting the importance of regular ear care and consultation with audiologists for proper management.
What are signs of severe hearing loss?
The signs of severe hearing loss include difficulty understanding speech, needing to raise your voice to communicate, and frequently asking others to repeat themselves. Additionally, sounds may seem muffled, and you might struggle to hear in noisy environments.
How can I protect my hearing from damage?
Protecting your hearing from damage involves using ear protection in loud environments, keeping volume levels moderate on devices, and scheduling regular hearing check-ups with professionals. These practices help maintain your auditory health and prevent potential hearing loss.
What educational resources help with understanding hearing health?
Educational resources that help with understanding hearing health include informative websites, audiology publications, webinars, and community workshops. Consulting with professionals at Chicago Hearing Services can also provide valuable insights and personalized guidance.
What are common misconceptions about hearing loss?
Common misconceptions about hearing loss include the beliefs that it only affects the elderly, that it cannot be treated, and that it is always caused by loud noise exposure. In reality, hearing loss can occur at any age, may be reversible, and can stem from various factors.
How to differentiate between earwax and hearing loss?
Differentiating between earwax buildup and hearing loss involves recognizing specific symptoms. Earwax blockage often presents with a feeling of fullness in the ear and temporary hearing loss, while hearing loss is typically gradual and may include difficulty understanding speech.
signs of going deaf, signs that you are going deaf in one ear, red ear wax, hearing loss or clogged ear, hearing loss symptoms, hearing loss vs clogged ear, can ear wax cause hearing loss, clogged ears or hearing loss, hearing loss or ear wax, am i losing my hearing or are my ears clogged, can ear wax affect hearing, signs you wax at home audio, how to safely remove ear wax