Why Do I Hear Echoes After Earwax Removal? Tinnitus and Ear Care

After cleaning earwax, my ears echo when I speak?

I went to see an ENT doctor because of tinnitus, and they said I had too much earwax and helped me clean it out.
During the suction, it was extremely loud, and the doctor said that was normal.
However, after I returned home, I noticed that when I spoke, I could hear an echo in that ear, and I still have tinnitus, although it has become quieter.
I want to know if I can use ear drops to soften the earwax in the ear that has the echo and tinnitus.

Hua Hua, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/14

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, generally, earwax softening drops can be used if there is no perforation in the eardrum.
If you have concerns or continue to feel discomfort, it is advisable to return for a follow-up examination after using the drops.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/07/14

More Info

Hearing echoes or experiencing tinnitus after earwax removal can be a perplexing experience, and it's understandable to have concerns about these symptoms. Let's break down the potential reasons for these sensations and discuss appropriate ear care.

Understanding Echoes and Tinnitus
1. Echoes: The sensation of hearing echoes, especially after earwax removal, can be attributed to several factors. When earwax is removed, it can change the way sound travels through the ear canal. Earwax acts as a natural barrier, and its removal can alter the acoustics of the ear, leading to a temporary sensation of echoes or reverberation. This is often more pronounced if there was a significant buildup of wax that was obstructing sound waves.

2. Tinnitus: Tinnitus is the perception of sound when no external sound is present, often described as ringing, buzzing, or hissing. After earwax removal, some individuals may notice a change in their tinnitus. In your case, it seems that the intensity of the tinnitus has decreased, which is a positive sign. This could be due to the removal of the blockage that was contributing to the perception of the sound.

Ear Care After Wax Removal
After your earwax removal, it's crucial to take care of your ears to prevent further issues:
- Dripping Ear Drops: If your doctor has recommended using ear drops to soften any remaining earwax, you can generally use them in the ear that has experienced echoes and tinnitus. However, it's essential to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. If you have any concerns about using ear drops, especially if you experience pain or discomfort, consult your healthcare provider.

- Avoiding Irritants: Try to avoid exposure to loud noises, as this can exacerbate tinnitus. Protect your ears in noisy environments, and consider using earplugs if necessary.

- Hydration and Humidity: Keeping your body hydrated and maintaining a humid environment can help keep your ear canals moist, which may alleviate some discomfort.

- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If the echoes or tinnitus persist or worsen, it’s advisable to return to your ENT specialist for further evaluation. They may perform additional tests to rule out any underlying issues, such as eustachian tube dysfunction or other ear conditions.

When to Seek Further Help
If you continue to experience echoes or if your tinnitus becomes bothersome, it’s essential to seek further medical advice. Persistent tinnitus can sometimes indicate an underlying condition that may require treatment. Additionally, if you notice any changes in your hearing, such as a decrease in hearing ability or increased discomfort, these are also reasons to consult your healthcare provider.

Conclusion
In summary, experiencing echoes and changes in tinnitus after earwax removal is not uncommon and can be attributed to the alteration in sound dynamics within the ear. Following your doctor's advice regarding ear care and monitoring your symptoms will be crucial in managing your ear health. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms persist, do not hesitate to reach out to your ENT specialist for further guidance. Taking proactive steps in ear care can help maintain your hearing health and overall well-being.

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