It is especially important for hearing instrument users to avoid earwax buildup. Accumulations of the fatty substance produced by the sweat glands inside the ear not only damage the hearing instrument, but they also can reduce its effectiveness by blocking sound, causing feedback and producing poor fit. Left to its own devices, earwax will normally migrate through the ear canal and shed on its own. However, because a hearing instrument may block the wax’s normal passage, it is recommended that hearing instrument users visit a health care professional every three to six months to inspect their ears with an otoscope and treat earwax impaction as needed.
When it is difficult to tell whether ear wax or another physical impairment is causing hearing loss, it’s time for a hearing test. Visit our office for a comprehensive hearing evaluation so that we may accurately determine the reason behind your hearing loss.