Ear wax is a normal, natural thing! It is produced by a special lining in the ear canal. The purpose of the wax is to trap dust and water, and to fight bacteria. The wax gradually leaves the ear with the help of special skin cells - that essentially work like a conveyor belt. In order for this self-cleaning system to work, healthy skin cells in the ear are required. Skin cells that are damaged or in poor condition can cause itching, a higher chance of infection or blocked ears due to a build up of wax. 

 

In normal amounts, ear wax is incredibly helpful. But if it builds up, the ear canal can become blocked and hearing difficulties can arise.

 

A build up of wax is more likely to occur in people who insert implements into the ear (cotton buds, ear plugs, head phones, etc) as this can damage the layer of skin and halter the self-cleaning process. It is also more common for children, elderly people, hearing aid wearers and people with genetic factors such as narrow ear canals or associated medical conditions.

 

Symptoms of blocked ears include reduced hearing ability, itchy ears, pain or discomfort, hearing aids whistling or tinnitus.