ENT, by video or in person
Earwax Build-Up
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Earwax Build-Up
- Muffled hearing in one ear
- A feeling that the ear is full or blocked
- Ringing or buzzing in the ear
- Itching or mild discomfort
- Dizziness, sometimes
Earwax is made by the ear to protect and clean it, and it normally works its way out by itself. It can build up and block the ear, causing muffled hearing, a feeling of fullness, ringing or itching. The commonest cause is pushing wax deeper with cotton buds, hair pins or other objects, which can also scratch the ear canal or damage the eardrum. Olive oil or almond oil drops for a week or two soften wax so it comes out. If that does not work, a doctor or nurse can remove it by gentle irrigation or suction.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Muffled hearing in one ear
- A feeling that the ear is full or blocked
- Ringing or buzzing in the ear
- Itching or mild discomfort
- Dizziness, sometimes
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if your hearing has not improved after two weeks of oil drops, if you have had ear surgery or a perforated eardrum, or if you have ear pain, discharge or itching that does not settle. Go to a hospital or emergency department the same day for sudden hearing loss, severe ear pain, bleeding from the ear after an injury, or an ear problem with severe dizziness, weakness of the face or a high fever.
Treatment options
- Olive oil or almond oil drops, two or three drops twice a day for one to two weeks
- Lying with the ear upwards for a few minutes after the drops
- Ear irrigation by a trained clinician if drops do not work
- Microsuction by an ENT specialist
- Stopping cotton buds and other objects in the ear
Common Questions
Should I clean my ears with cotton buds?
No. They push wax deeper and can damage the ear canal or eardrum. Clean only the outer ear with a cloth.
Are ear candles safe?
No. They do not remove wax and can cause burns and blockages. Oil drops are safer and work better.
Can I syringe my ears at home?
It is safer to have irrigation done by a trained clinician, who first checks the eardrum is intact.
Need Help?
An ear, nose and throat specialist on a video call, who plans treatment and says whether an examination or an operation is needed.
See an ENT specialist by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified ent specialist near you.
ENT in Lagos →ENT in Abuja →ENT in Port Harcourt →ENT in Jos →ENT in Ibadan →Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.