-- AskAnAudiologist.com has published a new article that tells the story of something many people experience but rarely understand: what it means when earwax falls out of the ear unexpectedly.
The piece opens with a relatable scenario: a patient watches a huge piece of earwax fall out, feels immediate relief, then later discovers it may not have been a good sign at all. What starts as a strange and satisfying moment could actually be a warning sign that the ears need professional help, according to the audiology experts featured in the article.
While it might seem like the body is just doing its job, licensed audiologists are now warning that earwax falling out of the ear can often be a red flag, not a clean bill of health. Some of these symptoms like dizziness, pressure, or muffled hearing, can persist long after the wax exits, often pointing to incomplete removal or deeper blockages in the ear canal.
Dr. Taylor Chabot, an audiologist at Columbia Basin Hearing Center in Kennewick, Washington, says this is more common than most people think. "We see patients every week who assume the problem is over because something fell out. But in many cases, only the outer wax was dislodged, and buildup is still affecting the eardrum or hearing," she said.
The article also addresses rising public interest in the topic, as search queries related to earwax expulsion have surged in recent months, driven in part by viral cleaning videos on social media. The piece specifically covers scenarios like when dry earwax is falling out of the ear and when people notice a ball of earwax falling out of the ear.
However, audiologists warn that self-cleaning methods, especially cotton swabs, irrigation kits, and ear candles, often make the problem worse. "Cotton swabs push wax deeper. Ear candles are ineffective and risky. Even over-the-counter devices can create compaction or injury if used improperly," said Dr. Chabot. "That's why professional assessment is so important."
The article cites CDC data showing that more than 12 million Americans seek treatment for impacted earwax each year. Up to 35 percent of older adults experience recurring buildup that can interfere with hearing aids, cognition, and overall communication. When dry earwax is falling out of the ear, it may be the body's attempt to expel hardened material, but it doesn't always succeed.
Professional cleanings involve visual inspection, specialized tools, and post-removal evaluation to check for irritation or infection. "It's not just about removal. It's about making sure the ear is healthy," said Dr. Chabot.
The article reminds readers that even small symptoms, like a ball of earwax falling out of the ear, can reveal much bigger problems. Early intervention not only prevents complications but protects long-term hearing health.
Read the full article: https://askanaudiologist.com/huge-piece-of-wax-fell-out-of-my-ear/
About AskAnAudiologist.com
AskAnAudiologist.com is a national hearing health platform created by audiologists to share expert insights, answer common patient questions, and promote evidence-based care. Every article is reviewed or contributed by licensed professionals, making it one of the only hearing resources written entirely by audiologists.
About Dr. Taylor Chabot
Dr. Taylor Chabot is a Doctor of Audiology practicing in Kennewick, Washington. She specializes in diagnostic testing, wax removal, and hearing aid fitting with a patient-first approach.
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