文档介绍：Wax blockage Definition Wax blockage is an obstruction of the ear canal with wax (cerumen). Causes The ear canal is lined with hair follicles and glands that produce a waxy oil called cerumen. Ear wax protects the ear by trapping dust, bacteria and other anisms, and other foreign particles to prevent them from entering and damaging the ear. Ear wax also helps protect the delicate skin of the ear canal from ing irritated when water is in the canal. The wax usually makes its way to the opening of the ear, where it falls out or is removed by washing. In some people, the glands produce more wax than can be easily removed from the ear. This extra wax may harden in the ear canal and blockthe ear. monly, wax may block the ear canal if you try to clean the ear and accidentally push wax deeper into the ear canal. Wax blockage is one of the mon causes of hearing loss. Symptoms Earache Fullness in the ear or a sensation that the ear is plugged Noises in the ear (tinnitus) Partial hearing loss, may get worse Exams and Tests During a physical examination, the health care provider will look into the ear for signs of wax blockage. Treatment Most cases of ear wax blockage can be treated at home. The following can be used to soften the wax in the ear: Baby oil Commercial drops Glycerin Mineral oil Detergent drops such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide may help remove the wax. Another method of removing wax is called irrigation. Use body-temperature water (cooler or warmer water may cause brief but severe dizziness or vertigo). With your head upright, straighten the ear canal by holding the outside ear and gently pulling a syringe to gently direct a small stream of water against the ear canal wall next to the wax plug. Tip your head to allow the water to drain. You may need to repeat irrigation several times. Never irrigate the ear if the eardrum may not be intact. Irrigation with a ruptured eardrum may cause ear infection or acoustic