Impacted Cerumen

Overview of Impacted Cerumen

Earwax or cerumen can block or obstruct the external ear canal. This may be caused by an overproduction of wax from the glands of the ear. The earwax normally serves to protect the delicate lining of the external auditory canal, the channel that connects the eardrum to the outside world. Impaction of wax in the canal will affect hearing. Attempts at removing it can damage the external canal and produce infections.

Causes of Impacted Cerumen

Cerumen impaction is due to an overproduction of wax by glands in the external ear canal.

Signs and Symptoms of Impacted Cerumen

Cerumen impaction produces decreased hearing by blocking some or all of the external auditory canal. The sound waves become muffled and do not transmit their energy to the eardrum. In addition, there is frequently pain in the ear and the ear feels plugged. Frequently, people develop tinnitus or ringing in the ear. This may be transient, or may last a long time.

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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008

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