A sudden drop in hearing can be worrying. The assumption is simple for many people: “It’s probably just earwax.” And in many cases, that’s true; impacted earwax is a common cause of temporary hearing loss. However, not all hearing issues are caused by wax buildup.
Conditions like ear infections, eustachian tube dysfunction, or even tinnitus can mimic the symptoms of wax-related hearing loss. That’s why seeking professional assessment is important rather than attempting self-treatment.
At Hodgson Pharmacy, we offer expert ear health checks and ear microsuction services at our dedicated clinics in Longfield near Dartford and Gravesend, helping you find the real cause of your symptoms and the most suitable treatment.
When Hearing Loss Isn’t Just Earwax
While earwax impaction is a common culprit for blocked ears and hearing reduction, it’s not always the only or most likely cause. Several other conditions can result in similar symptoms and may require different treatments.
1. Middle Ear Infections (Otitis Media)
Middle ear infections can cause a build-up of fluid behind the eardrum, leading to:
- Muffled hearing
- Pain or pressure
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- Fever in some cases
These infections are more common in children but can affect adults too especially following a cold or sinus infection. Unlike wax, the solution here isn’t removal, but medical treatment, and in some cases, antibiotics.
2. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)
The eustachian tubes connect your middle ear to the back of your nose and throat. When they’re blocked or not functioning properly (often after illness, allergies, or altitude changes), you might experience:
- Popping or crackling in the ears
- Temporary hearing loss
- Pressure or imbalance
- Tinnitus-like sounds
Unlike earwax, ETD may require decongestants, antihistamines, or referral for further ENT investigation. A professional check is the best way to differentiate between ETD and earwax buildup.
3. Tinnitus and Sudden Hearing Loss
Tinnitus – a ringing or buzzing in the ears – can occur with or without wax buildup. But if tinnitus suddenly appears, or is accompanied by:
- Dizziness
- Hearing loss in one ear
- A feeling of blockage that doesn’t clear
…it may point to an inner ear issue like sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), which requires urgent medical attention.
Why Self-Diagnosis Can Be Risky
Many try to manage blocked ears at home using cotton buds, ear drops, or ear candles but these methods can do more harm than good. For example:
- Cotton buds can push wax further in, worsening the blockage.
- Ear candles are ineffective and dangerous, with risks of burns and ear damage.
- Ear drops may soften wax but won’t help if the issue isn’t wax-related.
That’s why a pharmacy-led ear health check is a safer, smarter first step.
How a Pharmacy-Led Ear Check Can Help
At Hodgson Pharmacy, our trained healthcare professionals use specialist equipment to assess the condition of your ears. We can identify:
- Whether your hearing issue is caused by impacted wax
- Signs of infection or inflammation
- Symptoms of ETD or other underlying conditions
If wax-related, we recommend ear microsuction a safe, effective, and water-free removal method. If another issue is present, we’ll guide you to the appropriate care, whether that’s over-the-counter medication or a GP referral.
When Is Ear Microsuction the Right Choice?
Ear microsuction is ideal if:
- You have a blocked ear caused by wax
- You wear hearing aids or use earplugs regularly
- You’ve experienced unsuccessful results from ear drops
- You want a quick, same-day solution without discomfort
The procedure is performed under magnification, using gentle suction to remove wax without flushing the ear. Most people report immediate relief and better hearing.
Local Expert Care in Longfield
Our ear care clinics at Hodgson Pharmacy provide:
- Same-day ear health checks
- Safe ear microsuction for adults and older children
- Advice on recurring earwax issues
- Aftercare guidance to prevent future build-up
With convenient locations in Longfield near Dartford and Gravesend, expert help is never far away.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore Hearing Issues
If you’re struggling to hear clearly, don’t assume it’s “just wax.” A pharmacy-led ear check can provide clarity and connect you with the right treatment, whether that’s professional microsuction or further medical investigation.Book your ear assessment or microsuction appointment today at Hodgson Pharmacy and hear the difference a professional approach can make.