Impacted Ear Wax Removal in Singapore

Impacted ear wax, or cerumen impaction, occurs when ear wax accumulates and becomes lodged in the ear canal, forming a solid plug that blocks the ear.

This condition affects the natural self-cleaning mechanism of the ear and can lead to hearing difficulties, discomfort, and other ear-related problems if left untreated.

Dr Gan Eng Cern

Ear, nose and throat specialist

MBBS

MRCS (Edin)

mmed (orl)

FAMS

Symptoms Causes Types Diagnosis Treatment Prevention FAQ

Symptoms of Impacted Ear Wax

Impacted ear wax can cause a variety of symptoms that interfere with hearing and overall comfort, which may vary depending on the severity of the impaction and often require clinic evaluation.

Muffled Hearing: Sounds may seem distant or unclear, as the wax physically blocks sound waves from reaching the eardrum. This is often more noticeable in environments with soft or low-pitched sounds.
Tinnitus: Persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing noises in the affected ear are common. These sounds may vary in intensity and can become more noticeable as the blockage worsens.
Ear Discomfort: A sensation of fullness, pressure, or even itchiness in the ear canal is frequent with impacted wax. This discomfort may increase with prolonged impaction.
Balance Issues: Dizziness or vertigo may occur if the impaction exerts pressure on the structures responsible for balance within the ear. These symptoms can range from mild unsteadiness to pronounced dizziness.
Earache: Pain in the affected ear can range from mild, intermittent discomfort to severe, sharp pain. It may be aggravated by activities such as chewing or pressing on the area around the ear.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors contribute to the development of ear wax impaction, affecting how the ear processes and removes cerumen.

Anatomical Variations: Narrow or curved ear canals can trap wax more easily and prevent natural removal.
Cotton Bud Usage: Regular use of cotton buds can push wax deeper into the canal and cause compaction.
Hearing Aid Use: Wearing hearing aids or ear plugs can prevent natural wax migration and lead to buildup.
Age-Related Changes: Older adults often produce drier, harder ear wax that is more likely to become impacted.
Excessive Hair Growth: Dense ear canal hair can trap wax and prevent its natural outward movement.
Skin Conditions: Dry skin associated with conditions such as eczema around the ear canal can lead to wax buildup, disrupting the ear’s self-cleaning mechanism.

Types of Ear Wax Impaction

Ear wax impaction presents in different forms, each requiring specific approaches to treatment.

Soft Impaction: Recent accumulation of cerumen that maintains a softer consistency. The wax remains relatively pliable and responds well to home treatments or basic removal methods. This type typically develops over weeks to months.
Hard Impaction: Long-standing buildup that has become dehydrated and firmly adherent to the ear canal walls. The wax hardens and often requires professional removal due to its density and attachment to the canal. This type may take months to years to develop.
Mixed Impaction: Combination of both soft and hard wax layers within the ear canal. The outer layer may be softer, while deeper portions have hardened over time. This type presents unique challenges for removal and often requires multiple treatment approaches.

Diagnostic Methods

Otoscopy

Examination using an otoscope allows direct visualisation of the ear canal and wax buildup. The healthcare provider can assess the type, location, and severity of the impaction while checking for other conditions.

Hearing tests

These may be needed to exclude a middle ear or inner ear problem if there was no impacted earwax seen during examination.

Treatment Options

Managing impacted ear wax involves a range of approaches, from over-the-counter solutions to professional medical procedures tailored to the severity of the impaction.

Ear Drops: Over-the-counter cerumenolytic drops help soften and break down ear wax. Applications typically continue for 1-2 weeks, allowing the wax to dissolve or become easier to remove. Different formulations include olive oil, sodium bicarbonate, or hydrogen peroxide-based solutions.
Irrigation: Gentle washing of the ear canal with warm water using specific irrigation devices. The procedure requires proper technique to avoid complications and may need several attempts for complete removal. This method works best after using ear drops to soften the wax.
Manual Removal: Professional removal using specialised instruments such as forceps, hooks, curettes, and suction devices The procedure takes place under direct vision and requires expertise to avoid injury to the ear canal or eardrum.

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Prevention and Management

Regular ear cleaning at home should focus on the outer ear only, allowing the ear’s natural cleaning mechanism to function. Avoid inserting objects into the ear canal, including cotton buds. Individuals prone to wax buildup may benefit from periodic professional cleaning every 6-12 months. Those who use hearing aids should have regular ear checks and clean their devices properly to prevent wax accumulation.

For Singaporeans & Singapore Permanent Residents

Medisave & Insurance Shield Plan approved

Your ENT procedure may be eligible for Medisave claims, with the claimable amount varying based on the procedure’s complexity. For additional options, including the use of your insurance or Integrated Shield Plan, reach out to our friendly clinic staff today for assistance.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can impacted ear wax cause headaches?

Yes, the pressure from impacted ear wax can occasionally result in headaches or referred pain in surrounding areas, such as the jaw or neck.

Can impacted ear wax cause infection?

Impacted ear wax can trap moisture and debris, creating an environment that encourages bacterial or fungal growth. This can lead to infections such as otitis externa, commonly known as “swimmer’s ear”.

Is impacted ear wax common in children?

Yes, children are more susceptible to impacted ear wax due to their narrower ear canals and the production of softer, stickier wax. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help manage and prevent complications.

Dr Gan Eng Cern

Ear, nose and throat specialist

MBBS

MRCS (Edin)

mmed (orl)

FAMS

With over 15 years of experience, Dr Gan specialises in the comprehensive management of a broad range of conditions related to the ear, nose and throat (ENT), and head and neck.

Dr. Gan has contributed to the academic field as a Senior Clinical Lecturer at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore. He is recognised for his extensive research work, with numerous contributions to reputable international ENT journals. Dr Gan is also highly sought after as a speaker and has shared his surgical knowledge as a surgical dissection teacher at various prominent ENT conferences and courses.

2020 – Reader’s Choice Gold Award for Best ENT Specialist (Expat Living Singapore)
2016 – Best Educator Award (Eastern Health Alliance)
2016 – “Wow” Award (Patient Compliment)

2014 – Eastern Health Alliance Caring Award – Silver
2014 – 19th Yahya Cohen Memorial Lectureship (awarded by the College of Surgeons, Academy of Medicine Singapore for best scientific surgical paper)
2012 – Human Manpower Development Award (Ministry of Health, Singapore)
2007 – Singhealth Best Doctor Award

Qualifications

MBBS – Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia)
MRCS (Edin) – Member of the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh, United Kingdom
MMed (ORL) – Master of Medicine in ENT (National University of Singapore)
FAMS – Fellow of the Academy of Medicine Singapore

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