Near the entrance to the ear canal there are tiny hairs and glands that produce protective wax (also known as cerumen). Together, these are designed to keep the ear canal clean, trapping dust and other particles so that sound can pass along it freely.

Ear wax also serves as a protective coating over the skin of the ear canal, acting as a temporary water repellent. Normally, the ear is self-cleaning and wax simply works its way slowly to the outside of the ear, taking the trapped dust and dirt with it. Sometimes, however, ear wax can build up and become a problem.

Ear wax is the main ear problem that can be safely treated with OTC products without the sufferer having to see a doctor first.

What are the causes?

In some people, ear wax is simply produced at a faster rate than normal and this leads to a build up of excess ear wax. Other people may have ear canals that are narrow, or formed at an angle, which slows down the natural passage of wax. In these people, wax may build up in the outer ear. In extreme cases, wax may block the ear canal completely.

What are the symptoms?

Excess ear wax can cause the following symptoms:

• Difficulty hearing
• Pain in the ear
• Tinnitus (a noise or ringing in the ear)
• A blocked feeling in the ear
• Temporary deafness after swimming or having a bath or shower.

What are the treatment options?

Most cases of excess ear wax will respond to OTC treatment with a product designed to soften and loosen the wax, making it easier to remove. Examples: Cerumol, Earex, Exterol, Otex.

If a treatment has been used for three days without any improvement, there may be an underlying cause and the customer should be referred to the pharmacist.