Can cerumen impaction cause tinnitus?

People often encounter unusual situations in daily life—for instance, recently many have heard of a condition called “cerumen impaction.” Chances are, most individuals are unfamiliar with this term and unsure of its meaning. So, can cerumen impaction cause tinnitus?

Can cerumen impaction cause tinnitus?

Yes, cerumen impaction can cause tinnitus. It is an otolaryngological condition characterized by excessive accumulation of earwax (cerumen) in the external auditory canal that has not been promptly removed. Some patients experience ear pain, while others remain asymptomatic until the condition is discovered during a routine physical examination. Therefore, individuals diagnosed with cerumen impaction should seek medical treatment as soon as possible. An otoscopic examination can be performed, and under direct visualization with the otoscope, the impacted cerumen can be safely irrigated and removed.

Tinnitus caused by cerumen impaction typically manifests as a low-pitched roaring or rumbling sound in the ear, accompanied by a distinct sensation of fullness or pressure—and sometimes even hearing loss. This type of tinnitus results directly from the physical obstruction and pressure exerted by the impacted cerumen, producing a feeling of ear fullness and roaring, which differs markedly from neurogenic tinnitus. Neurogenic tinnitus is typically described as a high-pitched, cricket-like ringing—often milder during the day but worsening at night—whereas tinnitus due to cerumen impaction remains constant and does not fluctuate throughout the day.

When cerumen impaction causes tinnitus, it is advisable to first soften the impacted wax using sodium bicarbonate ear drops. After two days, the patient should visit a healthcare facility for professional cerumen removal. Following successful irrigation and clearance of the cerumen, tinnitus usually resolves immediately, along with rapid relief of ear fullness and hearing impairment. We hope this information proves helpful to you.