Earwax impaction

Question 1

Earwax impaction - key symptoms (7)

Answer 1

Hearing loss
Itchiness
Blocked ears
Vertigo
Tinnitus
Earache
Cough (rare)

Question 2

Earwax impaction - extra questions (8)

Answer 2

Recent trauma
Sudden or gradual
Foreign object?
Tinnitus or dizziness
Pain
Nut allergy (peanut oil drops)
Discharge
Fever

Question 3

Earwax impaction - risk factors (6)

Answer 3

Use of cotton buds
Older age
Narrow ear canal (e.g in Down’s syndrome)
Male
Skin conditions (dermatitis or psoriasis)

Question 4

Earwax impaction - explanation

Answer 4

Common condition where earwax builds up from either over production or compaction from cotton buds causing symptoms

Question 5

Earwax impaction - first-line (product, how it works, how to use it)

Answer 5

Otex olive oil ear drops
Works to soften the ear wax for easier removal
2-3 drops twice daily for up to 14 days
Leave in ear for a few minutes before wiping excess

Question 6

Earwax impaction - 2nd-line treatment (product, how it works, how to use it)

Answer 6

Otex express (urea hydrogen peroxide) ear drops
Breaks down hardened wax
Up to 5 drops twice daily for 3-4 days

Question 7

Earwax impaction - lifestyle (4)

Answer 7

Avoid cotton buds
Use damp cloth to remove wax
Avoid ear wax candles (no evidence)
Jaw movement can help (gum)

Question 8

Earwax impaction - referral (5)

Answer 8

Tinnitus or vertigo
Foreign object in ear
Associated with trauma
Unresponsive to treatment
Requiring irrigation (water flushing) by GP