Tinnitus, often described as a ringing, buzzing, or humming sound in the ears, can be both distracting and frustrating. While it’s a common condition that affects millions of people in the UK, its causes can vary widely. At Eltham Pharmacy in London, one of the questions we’re frequently asked is, “Can earwax cause tinnitus?” The answer is yes—excessive earwax build-up can contribute to hearing difficulties and tinnitus, but it’s also important to acknowledge that tinnitus can sometimes be a sign of a more serious underlying issue.

In this blog, we’ll explore the connection between earwax and tinnitus, how to protect your hearing, and when to seek professional help.

Can Earwax Cause Tinnitus?

Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance that protects and lubricates the ear canal. However, when earwax builds up excessively or becomes impacted, it can cause several problems, including:

Hearing Loss: A blockage in the ear canal can reduce sound transmission, making it harder to hear.

Pressure or Fullness: Impacted earwax can create a feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear, which can be uncomfortable.

Tinnitus: Blocked ears due to earwax can lead to tinnitus symptoms as the trapped wax interferes with normal sound processing.

While earwax build-up is a common cause of tinnitus, it’s important to remember that tinnitus can sometimes indicate other conditions, such as hearing loss, ear infections, or even more serious issues like damage to the auditory nerve. If you’re experiencing persistent or worsening tinnitus, professional advice is essential.

The Importance of Professional Earwax Removal

If you suspect that earwax is causing your tinnitus, avoiding DIY methods like cotton buds is crucial. These can push the wax further into the ear canal, worsening the problem. At Eltham Pharmacy, we offer safe and professional earwax removal services, including microsuction, which is considered the gold standard for clearing earwax.

Microsuction uses gentle suction and precision tools to remove wax without damaging the delicate structures of the ear. It’s quick, comfortable, and effective, providing relief from blockages and helping to reduce tinnitus caused by impacted wax.

Our team is trained to assess your ear health and determine whether earwax is the cause of your tinnitus. If we identify a more serious issue, we can advise you on seeking specialist help.

Protecting Your Hearing and Preventing Tinnitus

While earwax build-up is a common and treatable cause of tinnitus, protecting your hearing is essential for preventing tinnitus from other sources. Here are some tips to safeguard your hearing and reduce the risk of developing tinnitus:

1. Limit Headphone Volume: Avoid listening to music or podcasts at high volumes, especially through headphones or earbuds. The World Health Organisation recommends keeping the volume below 60% and taking regular breaks.

2. Use Earplugs in Loud Environments: Concerts, clubs, and other loud venues can expose your ears to dangerously high decibel levels. Invest in high-quality earplugs to protect your hearing without compromising sound quality.

3. Avoid Prolonged Exposure to Noise: Whether it’s power tools or noisy workplaces, try to limit your time in loud environments and wear hearing protection when necessary.

4. Stay Hydrated and Healthy: A healthy lifestyle supports good circulation, which is essential for maintaining ear health. Drink plenty of water, eat a balanced diet, and avoid smoking, which can damage blood vessels in the inner ear.

5. Be Mindful of Medications: Some medications, such as certain antibiotics or high doses of aspirin, can cause or worsen tinnitus. Always consult your GP or pharmacist if you notice any side effects.

By taking proactive steps to protect your hearing, you can minimise your risk of developing tinnitus and other hearing issues.

When to Seek Specialist Help

While earwax build-up is a common cause of tinnitus, persistent or severe symptoms may indicate an underlying condition that requires specialist attention. At Eltham Pharmacy, we’re here to guide you. If your tinnitus doesn’t improve after professional earwax removal or is accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness, ear pain, or hearing loss, we’ll advise you on seeking further evaluation from an audiologist or ENT specialist.

Why Choose Eltham Pharmacy for Earwax Removal?

At Eltham Pharmacy in London, we pride ourselves on providing safe, professional, and convenient earwax removal services. Our team is experienced in helping people find relief from blocked ears and tinnitus caused by earwax, and we take the time to assess your individual needs.

By choosing our services, you’ll benefit from:

State-of-the-Art Techniques: Including microsuction for safe and effective earwax removal.

Personalised Care: We’ll assess your symptoms and advise on the best course of action.

Expert Advice: From hearing protection to next steps for ongoing ear health, we’re here to support you.

Take the First Step to Better Hearing

If you’re asking yourself, “Can earwax cause tinnitus?”, the answer is yes—but the good news is that professional earwax removal may provide the relief you’re looking for. Contact Eltham Pharmacy in London to book your earwax removal appointment and get personalised advice on protecting your hearing and managing tinnitus. Your ear health is our priority, and we’re here to help you feel your best.

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