What are the complications of earwax blockage?

Question

Hi doctor,

I went swimming a few days back, and I have lost complete hearing in my right ear. I believe there is water stuck in it. I noticed it straight after getting out of the water. I can only hear a little. I tried blowing while holding my nose and tried ear drops suggested by the pharmacy. I thought it would go away after a few days, but it has not. However, I am going on holiday tomorrow for a week. So I am worried about what is happening to my ear. And whether it will cause issues on the plane with the air pressure. Please advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

According to the history provided by you, there is impacted wax or cerumen in the ear, which has gotten wet because of water entry into the ear while swimming. When ear wax gets wet, it swells up, leading to ear blockage. Refrain from blowing forcefully. It will not open the ear and lead to problems in the tympanic membrane. I suggest using wax solvent drops to be put which will dissolve the wax and which will come out by itself. Never try to remove wax or clean your ear by using tips or other objects. It is wrong and can lead to damage in the ear, even perforation of the tympanic membrane. Instead, just put wax solvent drops and let it dissolve and come out by itself. I hope this has helped you out. Thank you.