Ear wax - also called cerumen. Normally produced in small amounts in external ear canal.

Created from - a combination of secretions, dead skin cells and any substances that enter the ear.

Ear wax has a protective effect, helping to prevent infection in the ear canal. In most people, ear wax does not cause any problems.

Impacted Ear Wax

Risk Fx:

50y or <5y Male Stenotic ear canal Cotton-bud use Hearing aid use

PC

• Conductive hearing loss
• Discomfort in the ear
• A feeling of fullness
• Pain
• Tinnitus

Examination:

• Webers test - localised to affected side
• Rinnes test - bone conduction>air conduction
• Ear wax can be seen on examination with an otoscope. It may completely cover the tympanic membrane, preventing assessment of the tympanic membrane and inner ear.

Management

In most cases, ear wax does not require any interventions. The ears should naturally regulate the amount of wax in the ear canal without any issues.