Understanding the Link between Ear Wax and Vertigo: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the ear that helps to protect and clean the ear canal. However, excessive build-up of ear wax can sometimes lead to vertigo or dizziness. This is because the balance organs in the inner ear, which are responsible for maintaining balance and detecting changes in head position, can become irritated or even blocked by the excess wax. As a result, the brain may receive conflicting signals about the body's position in space, which can lead to symptoms such as vertigo, dizziness, or even loss of balance.

Therefore, discussing ear wax when talking about vertigo or dizziness is important because it helps healthcare providers to determine whether excessive ear wax may be a contributing factor to the patient's symptoms. In some cases, simply removing the excess wax may be enough to alleviate the symptoms and restore balance.

Keep reading as we ask the questions: Can earwax cause vertigo? Can ear wax cause dizziness? Can clogged ears cause dizziness?

What is ear wax?

Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a waxy substance produced by the ear canal. It is a mixture of secretions from specialized glands in the ear canal, as well as dead skin cells and other debris.

There are two main types of ear wax: wet and dry. Wet ear wax is yellow or brown in color and is more common in people of African and European descent. Dry ear wax is gray or tan in color and is more common in people of Asian descent. The type of ear wax a person has is determined by genetics.

Ear wax has several functions. First, it helps to protect the ear canal from water, dust, and foreign particles that could cause irritation or infection. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help to prevent infections. Additionally, ear wax helps to lubricate the ear canal, preventing dryness and itchiness.

Normally, the ear canal is self-cleaning, and excess ear wax is naturally expelled from the ear canal. However, sometimes ear wax can build up and become impacted, causing symptoms such as hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or dizziness. In these cases, it may be necessary to have the ear wax removed by a healthcare professional. It is important not to try to remove ear wax yourself using cotton swabs or other objects, as this can push the wax further into the ear canal and cause damage to the ear.

Keep reading to learn more about can earwax cause dizziness?

What is vertigo or dizziness?

Vertigo and dizziness are two different but related sensations that can cause a person to feel off-balance or unsteady. Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness that is characterized by a sensation of spinning or whirling, even when the person is standing still. Dizziness, on the other hand, refers to a more general feeling of lightheadedness or disorientation.

Symptoms of vertigo can include:

  • A sensation of spinning or whirling
  • Loss of balance or unsteadiness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Symptoms of dizziness can include:

  • Feeling lightheaded or faint
  • Unsteadiness or loss of balance
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Blurred vision

There are many different causes of vertigo and dizziness, including:

  • Inner ear disorders, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Meniere's disease, or vestibular neuritis
  • Migraines
  • Certain medications
  • Dehydration
  • Low blood sugar
  • Anemia
  • Anxiety or panic attacks
  • Neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease

It is important to see a healthcare professional if you are experiencing vertigo or dizziness, as they can help determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment. In some cases, vertigo or dizziness can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, so it is important to get prompt medical attention.

Can ear wax cause vertigo or dizziness?

Can ear wax cause dizziness? Yes, it can! Excessive ear wax can cause vertigo or dizziness when it blocks the ear canal or interferes with the normal functioning of the balance organs in the inner ear. The balance organs, known as the vestibular system, are responsible for detecting changes in head position and movement and sending signals to the brain to help maintain balance.

When the ear canal becomes blocked by ear wax, it can interfere with the normal flow of fluid in the inner ear, which can cause the balance organs to send conflicting signals to the brain. This can lead to symptoms such as vertigo, dizziness, or loss of balance. If you have ever wondered, “Can a clogged ear cause dizziness?” It most certainly can.

In addition to blocking the ear canal, ear wax can also cause irritation or inflammation of the skin in the ear canal, which can also affect the function of the balance organs and lead to symptoms of vertigo or dizziness.

It is important to note that not all cases of vertigo or dizziness are caused by ear wax, and it is important to see a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of these symptoms. In cases where ear wax is the culprit, a healthcare professional can safely remove the excess wax to alleviate the symptoms and restore balance.

There have been several studies that have investigated the relationship between ear wax and vertigo or dizziness. One study published in the Journal of Laryngology and Otology found that patients with vertigo were more likely to have excess ear wax than patients without vertigo. The study also found that the removal of the ear wax improved symptoms of vertigo in these patients.

Another study published in the European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology found that patients with dizziness were more likely to have impacted ear wax than patients without dizziness. The study also found that the removal of the ear wax improved symptoms of dizziness in these patients.

These studies suggest that there may be a link between ear wax and vertigo or dizziness, and that removal of the excess ear wax can improve symptoms. However, it is important to note that not all cases of vertigo or dizziness are caused by ear wax, and it is important to see a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause of these symptoms.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a condition that is commonly misdiagnosed as an ear wax blockage. BPPV is caused by small calcium crystals called otoliths that become dislodged and float around in the inner ear. This can cause brief episodes of vertigo that are often triggered by changes in head position. The symptoms of BPPV can be similar to those of an ear wax blockage, such as dizziness, imbalance, and nausea.

However, BPPV is typically diagnosed through a series of head movements called the Dix-Hallpike test, whereas an ear wax blockage is usually diagnosed through a visual examination of the ear canal. In some cases, an ear wax blockage and BPPV can occur together, so it is important to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

It is also possible for other conditions, such as Meniere's disease or vestibular neuritis, to be misdiagnosed as an ear wax blockage, but these conditions typically have additional symptoms that distinguish them from an ear wax blockage.

It can be difficult to distinguish between ear wax blockage and other causes of vertigo or dizziness based solely on symptoms, as many conditions can cause similar symptoms. However, there are a few key differences that can help healthcare professionals distinguish between these conditions.

  • Symptoms: With an ear wax blockage, the symptoms are usually limited to the ear and include ear fullness, hearing loss, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), and vertigo or dizziness. Other conditions, such as migraines or neurological disorders, may have additional symptoms such as headache, numbness, or weakness.
  • Onset: The onset of symptoms can also help distinguish between an ear wax blockage and other conditions. An ear wax blockage usually develops gradually over time, whereas other conditions may have a sudden onset of symptoms.
  • Visual examination: A visual examination of the ear canal can often diagnose an ear wax blockage, as the ear wax is visible in the ear canal. Other conditions may require additional tests or imaging to diagnose.
  • Response to treatment: Finally, the response to treatment can also help distinguish between an ear wax blockage and other conditions. If the symptoms improve after the removal of the ear wax, this suggests that the ear wax was the cause of the symptoms. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen after the removal of the ear wax, this suggests that there may be another underlying condition causing the symptoms.

It is important to see a healthcare professional if you are experiencing vertigo or dizziness, as they can help determine the underlying cause of the symptoms and provide appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of ear wax blockage

Some common symptoms of ear wax blockage include:

  • Earache: Some people with ear wax blockage may experience mild to moderate pain in the ear.
  • Ear fullness: The ear may feel full or clogged as if something is blocking the ear canal.
  • Hearing loss: The ear wax can block the ear canal and reduce hearing ability, making it difficult to hear sounds clearly.
  • Ringing in the ear (tinnitus): Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, or other noise in the ear that is not caused by an external sound. Ear wax blockage can sometimes cause tinnitus.
  • Vertigo or dizziness: In some cases, ear wax blockage can cause an ear clogged dizzy sensation, similar to vertigo, particularly if the blockage is severe or affects the inner ear.
  • Itching or discharge: Some people may experience itching or discharge from the ear due to ear wax blockage.

It is important to note that some people with ear wax blockage may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may have more severe symptoms. If you suspect that you have an ear wax blockage, it is important to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

You should seek medical attention for an ear wax blockage if you experience any of the following:

  • Severe or persistent symptoms: If you experience severe pain, hearing loss, vertigo or dizziness, or other symptoms that persist despite attempts to remove the ear wax, you should see a healthcare professional.
  • History of ear problems: If you have a history of ear problems, such as recurrent ear infections, a perforated eardrum, or prior ear surgery, you should see a healthcare professional before attempting to remove the ear wax.
  • Impacted ear wax: If the ear wax is impacted or deeply lodged in the ear canal, it may be difficult to remove and should be removed by a healthcare professional to prevent injury to the ear.
  • Diabetes: People with diabetes may be at increased risk for ear infections and other ear problems, so they should see a healthcare professional if they suspect an ear wax blockage.
  • Use of hearing aids or earplugs: If you use hearing aids or earplugs, it is important to see a healthcare professional for regular ear cleanings and to monitor for ear wax blockages.

In general, it is safe to attempt to remove ear wax at home using over-the-counter ear drops or a bulb syringe, but if you experience any of the above symptoms or have any concerns, you should see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

An earwax blockage is typically diagnosed through a visual examination of the ear canal by a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or audiologist. During the examination, the healthcare professional will use an otoscope, a handheld tool with a light and magnifying lens, to look inside the ear canal.

If the healthcare professional determines that there is an earwax blockage, they may also perform an audiogram, which is a hearing test that measures the ability to hear different sounds and pitches. This can help determine the severity of the hearing loss caused by an earwax blockage.

In some cases, the healthcare professional may also order imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, to rule out other underlying causes of the symptoms.

It is important to see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, as some conditions that mimic the symptoms of an earwax blockage, such as inner ear disorders or neurological conditions, may require different treatments.

Treatment options for ear wax blockage

While it is generally safe to attempt ear wax removal at home, it is important to note that not all home remedies are safe or effective for everyone, and some can even be harmful if used improperly. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting to remove ear wax at home.

That being said, here are some home remedies that may help remove ear wax:

  1. Ear drops: Over-the-counter ear drops containing hydrogen peroxide, mineral oil, or glycerin can help soften and loosen ear wax, making it easier to remove. Follow the instructions on the label and do not use ear drops if you have a perforated eardrum or ear infection.
  2. Warm water: Flushing the ear canal with warm water using a bulb syringe or irrigation kit can help remove ear wax. Make sure the water is not too hot, and do not use this method if you have a perforated eardrum or ear infection.
  3. Olive oil: Putting a few drops of warm olive oil in the ear can help soften and loosen ear wax. Tilt the head to the side to allow the oil to enter the ear canal, and then tilt the head back to allow the oil to drain out.
  4. Saline solution: A saline solution made with salt and warm water can also help loosen ear wax. Use a bulb syringe or irrigation kit to flush the ear canal with the solution.

It is important to note that using cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects to remove ear wax can be dangerous and can cause injury to the ear. If you are unable to remove the ear wax at home or if you experience any pain, hearing loss, or other symptoms, you should see a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If home remedies are not effective or if you are experiencing severe symptoms, a healthcare professional may recommend one of the following medical procedures for ear wax removal:

  1. Ear irrigation: This is a procedure in which a healthcare professional flushes the ear canal with water using a bulb syringe or irrigation kit. This can help remove ear wax that is impacted in the ear canal. It is important to note that ear irrigation should not be used if you have a perforated eardrum or ear infection.
  2. Ear curette: This is a procedure in which a healthcare professional uses a small, curved instrument called a curette to gently scoop out ear wax from the ear canal. This method is usually done under direct visualization with an otoscope.
  3. Microsuction: This is a procedure in which a healthcare professional uses a small suction device to remove ear wax (or fluid) from the ear canal. This method is often used when the ear wax is hard or impacted and cannot be removed with ear irrigation or curettage.
  4. Manual removal: This is a procedure in which a healthcare professional uses a small instrument, such as forceps or special ear curettes, to remove ear wax from the ear canal. This method requires direct visualization with an otoscope and is usually reserved for more difficult cases.

It is important to note that medical procedures for ear wax removal should only be performed by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a doctor, nurse practitioner, or audiologist, in a safe and sterile environment. Attempting to remove ear wax at home using objects such as cotton swabs or bobby pins can be dangerous and can cause injury to the ear.

Prevention of ear wax blockage

Here are some tips for preventing ear wax blockage:

  1. Don't insert objects into your ears: Cotton swabs, bobby pins, or other objects can push ear wax further into the ear canal, making it harder to remove and increasing the risk of blockage or injury.
  2. Keep your ears clean: Use a damp cloth to clean the outer ear, but avoid inserting anything into the ear canal.
  3. Avoid using earplugs: Frequent use of earplugs can cause ear wax to become compacted in the ear canal.
  4. Use ear drops: Over-the-counter ear drops containing hydrogen peroxide, mineral oil, or glycerin can help soften and loosen ear wax, making it easier to remove.
  5. Seek medical attention for ear infections: Ear infections can cause inflammation and increased production of ear wax, so it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have an ear infection.
  6. Consider seeing a healthcare professional for regular ear cleanings: Some people are prone to ear wax blockage and may benefit from regular ear cleanings by a healthcare professional.

It is important to note that a small amount of ear wax is normal and helps protect the ear canal from infection and irritation. Only attempt to remove ear wax if it is causing symptoms or if it is affecting your hearing. If you are unsure or if you experience pain or other symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

It is generally not recommended to clean your ears yourself, as inserting objects into the ear canal can push ear wax further in, leading to blockage or injury. However, if you feel like you need to clean your ears, you can do so safely by following these steps:

  1. Wash the outer ear with a damp cloth or use a gentle, unscented soap to clean the area around the ear.
  2. Tilt your head to one side and use a bulb syringe filled with warm water or saline solution to gently flush the ear canal. Make sure the water is not too hot and that the pressure is gentle enough to avoid causing discomfort or injury.
  3. Tilt your head to the other side and repeat the process with the other ear.
  4. Gently dry your ears with a towel, but avoid inserting anything into the ear canal.

It is important to note that this method is only recommended for general cleaning and should not be used if you have an ear infection or if you suspect you have an ear wax blockage. If you are experiencing symptoms such as pain, discharge, or difficulty hearing, consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ear wax blockage prevention usually does not require medical attention. However, you should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  1. Severe pain: If you experience severe pain in your ear, it could be a sign of an ear infection or injury and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
  2. Hearing loss: If you experience sudden or significant hearing loss, it could be a sign of an ear wax blockage or other underlying condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
  3. Discharge: If you notice any discharge from your ear, especially if it is accompanied by pain, it could be a sign of an infection and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
  4. Dizziness or vertigo: If you experience dizziness or vertigo, it could be a sign of an ear wax blockage or other underlying condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
  5. Previous ear surgery or injury: If you have had previous ear surgery or injury, you should consult with a healthcare professional before attempting to clean your ears or treat an ear wax blockage.

It is important to note that attempting to remove ear wax at home using objects such as cotton swabs or bobby pins can increase the risk of injury or infection. If you are unsure or experience pain or other symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Purchase a ScopeAround Otoscope Today

Ear wax blockage can cause symptoms such as ear pain, hearing loss, dizziness, vertigo, and ringing in the ears. It can be caused by factors such as excessive production of ear wax, narrow ear canals, and improper cleaning of the ears. Other conditions that can cause similar symptoms include vestibular disorders, migraines, and Meniere's disease. It's important to seek medical attention if you experience severe pain, significant hearing loss, discharge, dizziness, or vertigo, or have had previous ear surgery or injury. Home remedies for ear wax removal include using warm water or saline solution to flush out the ear canal or using over-the-counter ear drops. Medical procedures for ear wax removal include ear syringing, ear irrigation, and ear suction. To prevent ear wax blockage, avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ears, and consult with a healthcare professional before attempting to clean your ears. If you feel like you need to clean your ears, it is generally safe to wash the outer ear with a damp cloth or use a bulb syringe filled with warm water or saline solution to gently flush the ear canal.

ScopeAround was the first company to make an ear inspection otoscope camera for consumer use and they have the most experience and customer feedback manufacturing these devices. ScopeAround makes digital otoscopes that are stand-alone devices as well as ones that are compatible with iPhone (iOS) and Android mobile devices as well as PC (Windows) or Mac (OSX) computers.

 

Explore ScopeAround Products:

 

Explore ScopeAround Collections: