Ear Wax Removal

Ear wax buildup can cause discomfort, hearing changes, and a feeling of fullness in the ear. When you need safe and effective relief, the team at Minit Medical Urgent Care and Physical Therapy in Kihei, Kahului, and Lahaina, Hawaii, is here to help. Providing care island-wide, the team can evaluate your symptoms and perform gentle, in-house ear wax removal. Walk-ins are welcome. You can also call or schedule an appointment online for less urgent medical concerns.

What is ear impaction?

Ear impaction occurs when ear wax (cerumen) builds up and becomes stuck in the ear canal. While ear wax normally protects and cleans the ear, too much buildup can lead to blockage and symptoms.

Common causes of ear impaction include:

• Using cotton swabs or objects that push wax deeper into the ear
• Naturally narrow ear canals
• Wearing earbuds or hearing aids frequently
• Excessive wax production

Symptoms of ear impaction may include:

• Ear pain or discomfort
• A feeling of fullness or blockage
• Decreased or muffled hearing
• Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)
• Dizziness in some cases

What happens during an evaluation for ear impaction?

You can expect a thorough evaluation when you visit Minit Medical Urgent Care and Physical Therapy with ear-related concerns. The team will review your symptoms and examine your ear using specialized equipment to look for wax buildup or other issues.

This exam helps determine whether your symptoms are caused by ear wax impaction or another condition, such as an ear infection.

How is ear wax removed?

If ear impaction is present, the team performs safe and effective removal in the clinic. Treatment options may include:

• Gentle irrigation (flushing the ear with warm water)
• Manual removal using specialized medical instruments
• Softening agents to help loosen hardened wax

These methods are quick, effective, and much safer than attempting removal at home.

When should I seek care for ear wax buildup?

You should seek medical care if you have:

• Sudden or noticeable hearing loss
• Ear pain or pressure
• Persistent fullness in the ear
• Ringing or dizziness
• Symptoms that do not improve with over-the-counter remedies

Avoid trying to remove ear wax yourself, as this can push it deeper or cause injury.

For safe and effective ear wax removal, visit Minit Medical Urgent Care and Physical Therapy today. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can call or use the online scheduler.