Ear Wax Blockage

Alternate Names : Ear Wax Buildup

Ear wax blockage is a common complaint that causes no serious effects. It involves wax buildup that produces a sensation of fullness in the ear, and possibly partial deafness.

What is going on in the body?

Ear wax is produced all the time in the ear. This wax helps to form a protective coating around the skin in the ear canal. Usually, the ear canal is designed to clean itself. Ear wax will generally move outward during chewing and with the growth of the ear canal lining. Every day or two, a person may notice a little wax at the opening of the ear. In some people, the wax may build up.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Some people produce more ear wax than others do. Those with narrow ear canals may be more prone to wax blockage. The condition causes no risks other than a short-term dulled sense of hearing in some people.