Does Ear Wax Cause Tinnitus? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever experienced ringing, buzzing, or humming in your ears, you’re not alone. Tinnitus affects millions of people and can range from mildly annoying to seriously disruptive. One of the questions we often hear at Kennedy’s Pharmacy is: “Does ear wax cause tinnitus?” The short answer? Yes, it can.

At Kennedy’s Pharmacy in Ballymena, we offer safe, professional ear wax removal services that have helped many people find relief from both blocked ears and tinnitus-like symptoms. In this blog, we’ll explain how ear wax and tinnitus are connected — and what you can do about it.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external noise is present. It’s often described as:

• Ringing

• Buzzing

• Whistling

• Humming

• Hissing

Tinnitus isn’t a condition in itself, but rather a symptom of something else going on in the ear or auditory system. One of those possible causes? Excess or impacted ear wax.

So, Does Ear Wax Cause Tinnitus?

Yes – ear wax can cause or worsen tinnitus, especially when it becomes impacted or blocks the ear canal. Here’s how:

• Sound distortion: When ear wax builds up, it can affect how sound vibrations travel through the ear. This disruption may lead to confusion in the way your brain processes sound, resulting in the perception of noise that isn’t there – such as ringing or buzzing.

• Pressure on the eardrum: Hardened or impacted wax can press against the eardrum, creating pressure and irritation, both of which may trigger tinnitus symptoms.

• Inflammation: Wax build-up can sometimes cause inflammation, especially if the ear canal is already sensitive. This inflammation may irritate the delicate hearing structures and contribute to tinnitus.

While not everyone with ear wax build-up will experience tinnitus, if you’ve noticed ringing in your ears alongside muffled hearing or a blocked sensation, impacted wax could be to blame.

Signs Your Tinnitus May Be Wax-Related

You might be dealing with ear wax-related tinnitus if:

• You feel like one or both ears are blocked

• Your hearing has become muffled or dull

• You’ve been using earphones, hearing aids, or cotton buds frequently

• You experience occasional dizziness or ear discomfort

In these cases, a quick and painless ear wax removal treatment could make a noticeable difference.

Safe, Professional Ear Wax Removal in Ballymena

At Kennedy’s Pharmacy, we provide ear wax removal using modern, gentle techniques like microsuction. This method is quick, safe, and dry — ideal for patients who have had ear infections or sensitive ears.

Why choose us?

• No GP referral needed

• Appointments available locally in Ballymena

• Carried out by trained professionals

• Trusted by the local community

Whether your tinnitus is new or ongoing, it’s always worth checking if wax build-up could be a contributing factor.

Book Your Appointment Today

So, does ear wax cause tinnitus? Yes — and in many cases, it’s completely treatable. If you’re experiencing symptoms like ringing in the ears, blocked ears, or muffled hearing, our team at Kennedy’s Pharmacy is here to help.

Visit our ear wax removal service page to book your appointment today and take the first step toward clearer hearing and a quieter mind.