Cerumen (Earwax) Management

Understanding Earwax (Cerumen)

Cerumen—commonly known as earwax—is a natural substance produced by your ears to keep them healthy. It actually plays a few very important roles:

  • Lubrication: It keeps your ear canals from becoming dry or itchy.
  • Protection: It acts as a shield, trapping dust and debris before they can reach your eardrum.

When to Seek Help

Sometimes, earwax can build up and cause a blockage. You might notice symptoms like:

  • An earache or feeling of "fullness."
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
  • A sudden or gradual muffled feeling in your hearing.
  • Unusual pressure inside the ear.

Do you think you have an Ear Wax Blockage?

We recommend you do not try to remove it on your own. Most people will try to use Q-tips to remove any blockages. However, the Q-tip can push the blockage farther down the canal causing more serious problems.

At Hearing Associates of Northern Virginia, we offer a safe an easy way to remove earwax – with the Earigator™. It has fully automated temperature and pressure controls, making the Earigator™ a safe and highly effective ear wax removal system.

There are also home earwax removal kits that are available at most drug stores. While these are generally safe, it is highly suggested that you speak with our office before trying anything at home. We have special tools and training in safely removing these types of blockages.

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, please contact us today.