Can Earwax Really Cause Sudden Hearing Loss? Yes—Here’s What You Need to Know

shaneaudio
Apr 15
2 min read

Have you ever stepped off a long flight, caught a cold, or used ear drops for weeks—only to still feel like your hearing is blocked? You're not alone. Recently, a patient came to our Banbridge clinic after experiencing a complete loss of hearing in one ear following a long-haul flight. Four weeks of using drops and decongestants hadn’t helped.

Within minutes of their appointment at Aurora Audiology, we gently removed a stubborn plug of earwax lodged against their eardrum—and just like that, their hearing returned, “better than ever.”

So, can earwax really cause hearing loss?

Absolutely. While earwax is a natural and protective substance, too much of it—or wax pushed deep by cotton buds or earplugs—can completely block the ear canal. This is especially common after:

Flying (pressure changes)
Colds or sinus infections (increased congestion)
Using ear drops without professional follow-up

Common signs of an earwax blockage:

Sudden or gradual hearing loss
A “full” or “blocked” sensation in the ear
Ringing or buzzing sounds (tinnitus)
Mild earache or itchiness
Dizziness or imbalance

When should you seek professional help?

If symptoms last longer than a few days, or if you’ve tried drops with no success, it’s time to see an audiology professional. At Aurora Audiology, we offer safe, gentle, and effective wax removal—often with same-day appointments.

What happens during a wax removal appointment?

We begin with a thorough consultation and ear examination.
If wax is present, we’ll use specialist equipment to remove it safely—usually through microsuction, irrigation, or manual tools.
You'll experience instant relief and restored hearing in many cases.

“My hearing was returned better than ever. Fantastic service.” – Real patient, April 2025

Don’t let blocked ears disrupt your life.

If your ears feel muffled, or you’ve noticed a drop in hearing after travel or illness, book your consultation today. You’ll be surprised how quickly things can clear up.

👉 Book now at Aurora Audiology – at Gordon’s Chemist.📞 +447399415461| 💻 Ear Wax Removal in Northern Ireland