Persistent Ear Blockage Without Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice?

The ear feels constantly blocked but does not hurt?

Hello, doctor.
I noticed about a week ago that I had an excessive buildup of earwax blocking my left ear.
After visiting an ENT specialist, I was prescribed ear drops to soften the earwax.
After using them for two days, the earwax came out on its own.
However, two days later, I suddenly experienced an itching sensation in my left ear and felt something moving inside.
When I examined it, I found a large amount of thick, light yellow earwax that had an unusual odor.
At night, I even felt a watery discharge coming from my left ear, making the outer ear damp.
I went back to see the doctor, who said it was just regular earwax and helped clean it out.
However, after returning home, my left ear became blocked again.
Currently, the blockage is not as severe as before; it comes and goes, but there is no pain, only occasional mild itching.
I do feel pain when something foreign is inserted into the ear canal.
The doctor mentioned that if there is no pain, it is likely not an infection.
Should I seek medical attention again, or should I wait a few days?

zoi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/19

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if you continue to experience a feeling of fullness in your ears, it is advisable to return for a follow-up examination to ensure that all earwax has been completely removed or to check for any other issues.
Wishing you safety and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/10/19

More Info

When it comes to persistent ear blockage without pain, it is essential to understand the underlying causes and when to seek medical advice. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing issues with earwax buildup, which has led to a blockage in your left ear. After treatment with ear drops and a visit to the ENT specialist for cleaning, you noticed that the blockage returned, albeit to a lesser degree, and you are experiencing occasional itching and a sensation of fluid movement in your ear.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that earwax, or cerumen, serves a protective function in the ear canal. It helps to trap dust, debris, and microorganisms, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. However, excessive buildup can lead to blockage, discomfort, and even temporary hearing loss. The symptoms you describe, such as the sensation of fluid movement and the presence of a foul odor, could indicate that there is still some residual earwax or possibly an infection, even if you are not experiencing significant pain.

In your case, since you have already consulted with a healthcare professional who has assessed your condition and deemed it not to be an infection due to the absence of pain, it may be reasonable to monitor your symptoms for a few more days. However, if you notice any of the following changes, it would be advisable to seek medical attention:
1. Increased Discomfort or Pain: If the itching becomes more intense or if you start to experience pain, it could indicate that there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

2. Changes in Discharge: If the fluid you are experiencing becomes thicker, changes color, or has an unpleasant odor, this could suggest an infection that requires treatment.

3. Hearing Changes: If you notice a significant decrease in your hearing ability or if the sensation of blockage worsens, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider.

4. Fever or Systemic Symptoms: If you develop a fever or other systemic symptoms, this could indicate a more serious condition that needs immediate attention.

5. Persistent Symptoms: If the symptoms do not improve or worsen over the next few days, it would be prudent to return to the ENT specialist for further evaluation.

In the meantime, here are some self-care tips that may help alleviate your symptoms:
- Avoid Inserting Objects into the Ear: Do not attempt to dig out earwax with cotton swabs or other objects, as this can push the wax further into the ear canal and potentially cause injury.

- Keep the Ear Dry: Moisture can exacerbate earwax buildup and lead to infections. After showering or swimming, gently dry your outer ear with a towel.

- Use Ear Drops as Directed: Continue using the ear drops prescribed by your doctor to soften the wax, but only as directed.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, and take note of any patterns that may emerge.

In conclusion, while it may be acceptable to observe your symptoms for a short period, do not hesitate to seek medical advice if your condition changes or if you have any concerns. Your ear health is important, especially if you are experiencing any discomfort or changes in hearing. Regular follow-ups with an ENT specialist can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly, maintaining your ear health and overall well-being.

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