4 Signs of Earwax plugs.

Do you feel like you're in a bubble and struggle to hear sounds around you clearly, or do you experience a low, persistent ringing? It's possible that you have an accumulation of earwax. Earwax production is a natural event that waterproofs the ear and protects it from fungal and bacterial infections. Excessive earwax production can lead to a blockage inside the ear, resulting in buildup.

Here are 4 signs to understand if there is excessive earwax production:

• Feeling of Closed Ears (Muffled)

This experience can be quite bothersome as it reduces hearing capacity. The sensation of muffled ears is similar to when cotton is placed in the ear and can occur in one or both ears. This feeling of muffled hearing can have various origins, but the presence of an earwax blockage is one of the main conditions to investigate.

• Tinnitus (Ringing, Bell Ringing, etc.)

Tinnitus is a condition characterized by the perception of sounds or noises that do not have an external source. These sounds can range from a faint buzz to a ringing, whistling, or other types of sounds. Tinnitus can be temporary or persistent, and its severity can vary from mild to severe. The presence of an earwax blockage can be one of the causes of tinnitus, but often the origin can be different, and it is always best to consult your doctor to explore every possibility.

• Autophony (Resonance of Own Voice)

It is a condition in which one perceives their own voice as too loud or senses an echo in their voice when speaking. The feeling is that the sound of the voice resonates or "bounces" inside the ears or head abnormally.

• Itching

The accumulation of earwax can irritate the skin of the external ear canal, causing itching. Itching can also be caused by abnormal lubrication or excessive cleaning of the ear, especially with mechanical tools like cotton swabs. Some individuals may also be sensitive to substances trapped by earwax, leading to localized allergic reactions.

How to Prevent Earwax Buildup?

With a few small precautions, it is possible to prevent the accumulation of earwax. It is recommended to maintain proper ear hygiene, avoid using cotton swabs to clean the ear canal, keep the ears dry, and avoid excessive use of earphones and headphones.

Best Methods for Ear Canal Cleaning.

To try managing earwax buildup independently, there are products that can help: oily ear drops that soften earwax and promote its expulsion, saline solutions for gently cleaning the ear, ear irrigators to flush the ear with warm water, and ear cones to be used approximately once a month. In cases of particularly stubborn earwax, it is always advisable to consult a doctor or an ear, nose, and throat specialist to assess one's individual situation.