Earwax blockage

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Introduction Signs and symptoms Causes Risk factors

When to seek medical advice Treatment Self-care

Introduction

Earwax (cerumen) is part of your body's natural defenses. It protects your ear canal by trapping dirt and slowing the growth of bacteria.

At times, however, too much earwax may accumulate and become too hard to wash away naturally, resulting in earwax blockage.

It's not known why some people experience earwax blockage more often and why earwax blockage often occurs in only one ear. If earwax blockage becomes a problem, you or your doctor can take steps to remove the wax safely.

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Signs and symptoms