Why Is One Ear Louder After Cleaning? When to See a Doctor

My ear?

After cleaning out earwax, one ear suddenly sounds louder while the other is quieter, and I can hear my own voice echoing.
What could be the problem, and should I see a doctor?

sandy, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/23

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

If you have wet ears, it may be due to earwax blockage, middle ear inflammation, or damage to the auditory nerve function.
It is recommended to seek outpatient evaluation and treatment.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/04/23

More Info

Experiencing a sudden change in hearing after cleaning your ears can be concerning, and it's important to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention. When one ear sounds louder than the other, or if you notice an echo of your own voice, it may indicate a few different issues related to the ear's anatomy and function.

Firstly, the ear canal is designed to self-clean, and earwax (cerumen) plays a crucial role in protecting the ear from dust, debris, and microorganisms. When you clean your ears, especially with cotton swabs, you might inadvertently push wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to a blockage. This blockage can cause a sensation of fullness or pressure, and it may also affect how sound is transmitted through the ear. If one ear is blocked while the other is clear, the clear ear may seem louder in comparison, leading to the perception of uneven hearing.

Another possibility is that cleaning the ear may have caused some irritation or inflammation in the ear canal. This can lead to temporary changes in hearing, such as muffled sounds or echoing. If the cleaning process was aggressive, it could also potentially cause minor trauma to the ear canal or even the eardrum, which might result in altered hearing sensations.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is advisable to monitor them closely. If the changes in hearing persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, discharge, or dizziness, it is important to seek medical attention. An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can perform a thorough examination to determine if there is an obstruction, infection, or any other underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

In general, if you notice that your hearing has changed significantly after cleaning your ears, or if you have any concerns about your ear health, it is best to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional. They can provide appropriate treatment, which may include gentle ear cleaning, medication for inflammation or infection, or advice on proper ear hygiene practices.

To prevent future issues, it is recommended to avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ears. Instead, you can clean the outer ear with a damp cloth and allow the ear's natural cleaning mechanisms to function. If you feel you have excessive earwax buildup, consider consulting a healthcare provider for safe removal rather than attempting to do it yourself.

In summary, changes in hearing after ear cleaning can be due to blockage, irritation, or trauma. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is crucial to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Remember, maintaining ear health is important, and when in doubt, it's always best to consult a professional.

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