Impacted Earwax (Cerumen Impaction)

Overview

Cerumen impaction refers to excessive accumulation of earwax forming a mass that blocks the external ear canal, often related to excessive cerumen secretion or impaired drainage. It can cause ear fullness, hearing loss, and tinnitus, with symptoms worsening when the wax swells after contact with water.

Symptoms

• Feeling of ear fullness
• Hearing loss
• Tinnitus
• Ear pain

Treatment

Soften the earwax then remove by ear canal irrigation or instruments; avoid self-digging that may injure the ear canal.

Dietary advice

No special dietary restrictions; a balanced diet is sufficient, and take care to keep water out of the ear canal.