Advice · Tinnitus
Can ear wax cause tinnitus?
Yes, sometimes. A build-up of ear wax can trigger or worsen tinnitus. When wax is the cause, the tinnitus often improves once the wax is removed. Tinnitus has many other causes, so wax is not always the explanation.
What is tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the perception of sound, such as ringing, buzzing, hissing or humming, with no external source. RNID estimates that around 1 in 7 adults in the UK experience tinnitus. It is a symptom rather than a condition, and it can have many causes. More about tinnitus.
How ear wax can cause tinnitus
When wax builds up in the ear canal, it can block sound and press against the eardrum. This changes how sound travels through the ear, and in some people it triggers or worsens tinnitus. Other symptoms often include muffled hearing and a feeling of fullness in the ear.
Tinnitus caused by wax is often temporary. Once the wax is professionally removed, the tinnitus frequently reduces or stops.
Other causes of tinnitus
Tinnitus is also associated with age-related hearing loss, exposure to loud noise, some medicines, ear infections, jaw problems and cardiovascular conditions. If tinnitus continues after wax removal, or if the ears are clear, a full hearing assessment is the next step. Where findings indicate the need for medical investigation, the clinic advises patients to see their GP.
When to seek prompt medical advice
NHS guidance recommends seeing a GP if tinnitus is persistent, getting worse or affecting sleep or concentration. Tinnitus that pulses in time with the heartbeat, or that follows a head injury or sudden hearing loss, needs prompt medical attention.
What happens at the clinic
The clinician examines both ears with a video otoscope. If wax is present, it can usually be removed at the same visit. A free hearing test is recommended where appropriate. Not all tinnitus can be treated, but ruling out ear wax is a straightforward first step.
Questions people ask
Common questions
Can ear wax cause ringing in one ear?
Yes. A wax build-up in one ear can cause ringing or buzzing on that side, often with muffled hearing.
Will tinnitus go away after ear wax removal?
If wax was causing the tinnitus, it often reduces or stops after removal. If it continues, a hearing assessment is recommended.
Should I see my GP about tinnitus?
See a GP if tinnitus is persistent, getting worse or affecting sleep. Seek prompt medical advice if it pulses with your heartbeat, follows a head injury or comes with sudden hearing loss.
How much does ear wax removal cost?
Up to £65 for both ears at The Chepstow Hearing Clinic, with £10 off for returning patients.
Ringing in your ears?
An ear examination and, where needed, wax removal at our Chepstow clinic.