The Difference Between Earwax Build-Up and an Ear Infection

It’s common to experience discomfort or pain in the ear from time to time, but when you’re faced with symptoms like ear pain, dizziness, or hearing loss, it can be difficult to determine whether you're dealing with earwax buildup or an ear infection. The two conditions share several overlapping symptoms, but they are very different and require distinct treatments.

In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between earwax buildup and ear infections, highlighting their symptoms and providing guidance on what to do if you experience any of these issues.

What is Earwax Build-Up?

Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the body to protect the ear canal from dirt, dust, and bacteria. While earwax typically works its way out of the ear on its own, sometimes it can accumulate and form a blockage. This can lead to various symptoms and discomfort.

Symptoms of Earwax Build-Up:

• Muffled Hearing: A feeling of hearing sounds as though they are underwater or muffled.
• Ear Fullness: A sensation that the ear is plugged or full, which may cause discomfort.
• Itching or Discomfort: Itchy ears or discomfort in the ear canal.
• Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ear): Persistent ringing or buzzing in the ear.
• Hearing Loss: Reduced hearing ability, often in one ear.
• Occasional Pain: Some discomfort may occur, but it tends to be mild and temporary.

What is an Ear Infection?

An ear infection (otitis media) occurs when the middle ear becomes inflamed due to bacteria or viruses. This condition is often caused by a cold, sinus infection, or allergy. Ear infections are more common in children, but they can affect adults as well.

Symptoms of an Ear Infection:

• Severe Ear Pain: Sudden, sharp pain in the ear, often accompanied by pressure.
• Hearing Loss: This is usually more noticeable with an ear infection than with earwax buildup.
• Fluid Drainage from the Ear: Pus or fluid may drain from the ear, indicating an infection.
• Fever: A fever is common with an ear infection, especially in children.
• Dizziness or Balance Issues: Feeling unsteady or dizzy, as the ear plays a key role in balance.
• Irritability (in children): Children may tug at their ears or become more irritable than usual.

Key Overlapping Symptoms:

It can be tricky to differentiate between earwax buildup and an ear infection since they share several common symptoms. The following symptoms may occur in both conditions:

• Ear Pain or Discomfort: Both earwax buildup and ear infections can cause ear pain. However, ear infection pain tends to be more intense and may come with pressure or throbbing.
• Dizziness or Balance Issues: Earwax buildup can cause a feeling of fullness, which can make you feel slightly off-balance. In contrast, an ear infection can cause more severe balance problems and dizziness.
• Hearing Loss: Both conditions can lead to temporary hearing loss. With earwax buildup, hearing loss typically improves once the wax is removed. With an ear infection, hearing loss may persist until the infection is treated.

When to See a Specialist

Because these symptoms overlap, it’s essential to seek professional advice to properly diagnose the issue. If you're experiencing severe ear pain, fluid drainage, fever, or significant balance problems, it’s crucial to consult a doctor, as these are signs of an ear infection. If an infection is confirmed, the doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatment, typically antibiotics, and you should complete the full course of treatment.

Once the infection is cleared, if earwax buildup is still present, a professional earwax removal service like Hazelwood Hearcare can ensure that your ear is cleaned safely and effectively. Trying to remove earwax during an infection can exacerbate the problem, so it’s essential to wait until the infection is resolved.

Why Professional Earwax Removal is Important

While home remedies like cotton swabs might seem like an easy fix, they can actually push earwax deeper into the ear canal or cause injury. At Hazelwood Hearcare, we offer safe earwax removal using microsuction, which is a gentle and effective method that ensures your ear is cleaned properly without risking injury or further issues.

Key Takeaways:

• Earwax buildup and ear infections share similar symptoms, but they require different treatments.
• Ear infections often cause more severe symptoms like fever, fluid drainage, and intense ear pain.
• Earwax buildup can usually be treated with safe removal once any infection is cleared.
• If you experience symptoms that overlap or worsen, seek medical advice from a specialist.

If you think you may be dealing with earwax buildup or an ear infection, don’t wait until it becomes more problematic. Get professional help and take the first step toward better ear health. Book an appointment with Hazelwood Hearcare or call us at 07436717303.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the differences between earwax buildup and ear infections is important to ensure proper treatment.
• If you have an ear infection, seek medical attention and complete the prescribed course of antibiotics.
• Earwax buildup should only be cleared once any infection is resolved to prevent complications.

Book an appointment today and ensure your ears are healthy and clear of blockages!