Blocked ears can be more than just a mild annoyance. While ear wax is a natural and important part of the ear’s defence system, excessive build-up can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms that affect your hearing, balance, and overall quality of life.

At Eltham Pharmacy, we offer professional ear wax removal in London using safe and effective methods, including irrigation.

If you’re not sure whether it’s time to book an appointment, here are five common signs that you may benefit from an ear health check.

1. Muffled Hearing or Hearing Loss

One of the most common symptoms of ear wax build-up is a gradual reduction in hearing. You might notice that sounds seem quieter or that conversations are harder to follow, especially in noisy environments. It can feel as if your ears are blocked or like you’re hearing through a layer of cotton wool.

If you’ve recently started turning up the volume on the television or asking people to repeat themselves, excess ear wax could be the cause. In many cases, professional ear wax removal restores hearing clarity instantly — no hearing aid required.

2. A Feeling of Fullness or Pressure in the Ear

A sensation of fullness or pressure inside the ear is another clear sign that wax may be compacted. This feeling might come and go, or worsen after a shower or swim when moisture causes the wax to expand. While it may not be painful, it can become frustrating over time.

This symptom is especially common in people who regularly use earplugs, headphones, or hearing aids, as these can push wax deeper into the ear canal. If your ears feel blocked or “plugged”, it’s worth getting them checked by a trained professional.

3. Earache or Discomfort

While ear wax is meant to protect the ear canal, too much of it — particularly when impacted — can cause irritation or pain. This discomfort may be sharp or dull, and it often worsens when lying down or changing position.

Earache related to wax build-up is not usually severe, but it’s still something that shouldn’t be ignored. Left untreated, the pressure can increase and lead to further complications. If you’re experiencing persistent ear discomfort, our pharmacy team can help determine whether wax is the cause.

4. Tinnitus or Ringing in the Ears

Tinnitus — a ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in the ear — can sometimes be triggered by a blockage in the ear canal. Impacted wax can press against the eardrum or interfere with how sound is transmitted through the ear, leading to phantom noises that others can’t hear.

Although tinnitus can have several causes, if it appears suddenly or is accompanied by other symptoms like reduced hearing, wax may be the culprit. Many patients report that removing the blockage significantly reduces or resolves the ringing.

5. Dizziness or Balance Problems

Your ears play a vital role in maintaining balance. When wax presses against the structures responsible for equilibrium, it can cause feelings of dizziness, unsteadiness, or even vertigo. This is more likely if the wax build-up is severe or affecting both ears.

If you’ve noticed a recent change in your balance, especially alongside any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s important to rule out wax as a contributing factor. Prompt removal can make a real difference in restoring your stability and comfort.

Tinnitus, dizziness, and balance issues can sometimes be signs of an underlying health issue, and during your consultation, we can advise whether further investigation or specialist treatment is needed.

Professional Ear Wax Removal at Eltham Pharmacy

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed here, don’t attempt to fix the issue with cotton buds or home remedies — these can often push the wax further in and increase the risk of damage. Instead, book a professional assessment at Eltham Pharmacy.

We offer ear wax removal in London using safe, gentle microsuction technology. This method is widely recommended by audiologists and GPs and is suitable for most patients, including those with perforated eardrums or ear infections in the past.

During your appointment, we’ll examine your ears, explain our findings, and remove any excessive wax if needed. The procedure is quick, comfortable, and carried out by trained staff in a clean, clinical environment.

Book Your Ear Health Check Today

Don’t let blocked ears affect your day-to-day life. If you’ve been searching for ear wax removal London, Eltham Pharmacy is here to help with friendly, expert care. Whether you’re dealing with muffled hearing, earache, or dizziness, we’ll get to the root of the problem — and help you hear clearly again.

Contact us today or book online to arrange your ear health consultation at a time that suits you. Clear ears, better hearing, greater comfort — all just one appointment away.

This blog was written on behalf of Eltham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.