Earwax build-up
Earwax is normal and healthy. It protects the ear canal, and it usually works its way out on its own. Sometimes it builds up and blocks the ear, which is very common.
- Often clears
- By itself, or with softening drops
- Never use
- Cotton buds or ear candles
- Our service
- Herne Bay branch only
Common symptoms
- A feeling that the ear is blocked or full
- Muffled or reduced hearing, usually mild and temporary
- Ringing or buzzing in the ear (tinnitus)
- Itching or discomfort
- Earache
What makes build-up more likely
Wearing hearing aids, earplugs or in-ear headphones regularly, having narrow or hairy ear canals, and poking things into the ear can all push wax deeper or stop it from coming out naturally.
What not to do
- Do not use cotton buds, fingers, hairpins or anything else to dig wax out — this pushes it deeper and can damage the ear canal or eardrum.
- Do not use ear candles. They do not remove wax, and they can cause burns and blockages.
- Clean only the outside of the ear, with a damp cloth.
What you can do yourself
Softening the wax often helps it clear on its own. Use a few drops of olive oil or an over-the-counter wax-softening ear drop in the blocked ear, as the pack directs — olive oil is commonly used two to three times a day for three to five days. Lie with the affected ear upwards, put the drops in, stay there for a few minutes, then wipe away any excess.
Do not use drops if you have ear pain, discharge from the ear, a known hole (perforation) in the eardrum, grommets, or have had ear surgery or a recent ear infection. See a doctor first.
How PRX Pharmacy can help
Our Herne Bay branch offers a free ear assessment, followed by private ear wax removal using microsuction, carried out by trained staff. The assessment is always free — you only pay if removal is needed. This service is only available at Herne Bay.
Before your appointment we ask you to complete a short online health screening. It helps us check that removal is safe for you, and we will let you know if you need to see a doctor first.
When to get medical help
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- • You have signs of a stroke: face drooping on one side, arm weakness, or slurred speech
Contact your GP practice or call 111 the same day if:
- • You have sudden hearing loss in one or both ears — get help the same day
- • You have severe earache, or a high temperature
- • There is blood, pus or fluid coming from the ear
- • You have dizziness or a spinning sensation, or weakness of the face
- • You have hearing loss or ringing in one ear only, or it does not improve after the wax is removed
- • You have a known perforated eardrum, or have recently had an ear infection or ear surgery
If you are ever worried and unsure, ask us or call 111. Trust your instincts — it is always better to ask.
This guide is general information written by the PRX Pharmacy team. It does not replace advice from a pharmacist or doctor who knows your medical history.
Last updated 24 September 2026. Clinically reviewed by Milan Patel, Pharmacist on 24 September 2026.
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