Can Ear Wax Cause Tinnitus? Understanding the Link & How to Treat It

If you’ve ever noticed a persistent ringing, buzzing or whooshing sound in your ears, you might be experiencing tinnitus. While tinnitus can have a range of causes, one of the most overlooked – yet surprisingly common – is ear wax build-up. So, can ear wax cause tinnitus? The answer is yes, and in many cases, it’s more manageable than you might think.

At Kennedy’s Pharmacy in Ballymena, we specialise in safe, professional ear wax removal and offer support for a wide range of ear health concerns. You can book this service - find out more here. As an award-winning pharmacy – recognised as Community Pharmacy of the Year in Northern Ireland – we’re proud to help local patients find relief from conditions like tinnitus caused by wax blockage.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing sounds that aren’t caused by an external source. These sounds may include:

• Ringing

• Buzzing

• Hissing

• Clicking

• Pulsing

It can affect one or both ears and vary in intensity. For some, it’s a mild annoyance. For others, it can significantly impact concentration, sleep, and overall wellbeing.

Tinnitus isn’t a condition itself but a symptom of something else going on in the ear or auditory system – including excess ear wax.

Can Ear Wax Cause Tinnitus?

Yes – impacted ear wax can definitely lead to tinnitus in certain cases. Here's how:

• Blocked ear canals: When wax builds up and hardens, it can block the ear canal, preventing sound waves from passing through properly. This can confuse the brain's interpretation of sound, leading to phantom noises like ringing or buzzing.

• Pressure changes: Excess wax can put pressure on the eardrum or surrounding structures, causing changes in hearing and triggering tinnitus-like sensations.

• Irritation: Hardened wax can irritate the delicate lining of the ear canal, particularly when it’s been pushed in by cotton buds or earphones.

The good news is that tinnitus caused by ear wax is often reversible with the right treatment.

Signs You May Have a Wax-Related Issue

If you're experiencing tinnitus along with any of the following, ear wax could be the culprit:

• A feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear

• Reduced or muffled hearing

• Dizziness or imbalance

• Itching or irritation in the ear

What You Shouldn’t Do

It’s tempting to try and clear ear wax yourself, but using cotton buds or sharp objects can push wax further in or cause damage. Home ear drops can help soften wax, but if symptoms persist, it’s best to seek professional help.

Safe, Effective Ear Wax Removal in Ballymena

At Kennedy’s Pharmacy, we offer professional ear wax removal using the latest techniques such as microsuction – a quick, safe and comfortable method for clearing blocked ears. Our trained team will assess your ear health before treatment and ensure the best course of action for your symptoms. 

You don’t need a GP referral, and appointments are available locally in Ballymena. Whether your tinnitus is new or ongoing, we’re here to help get to the root of the problem. Book this service using - click here.

Don’t Let Tinnitus Go Unchecked

So, can ear wax cause tinnitus? Yes – and it’s one of the more treatable causes. If you’re experiencing ringing in the ears alongside hearing changes or discomfort, it’s worth getting your ears checked.

Visit Kennedy’s Pharmacy in Ballymena for professional ear wax removal and personalised advice. We’re here to help you hear clearly and live comfortably.