Ear wax Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Safe Removal Options

Ear wax plays a vital role in protecting your ears. It traps dust, debris, and bacteria, acting as a natural defence system. But when it builds up or becomes trapped, it can lead to discomfort, hearing issues, and in some cases, infection.

In this blog, we’ll explain what ‘infected ear wax’ is, the signs to look out for, and how to get safe, effective ear wax removal from professionals.

If you're based in Auckland and experiencing symptoms, our audiologists at Family Hearing Centre are here to help with expert care in a calm and friendly environment.

What Is ‘Infected Ear Wax’?

Technically, ear wax itself doesn’t become "infected." But when too much wax becomes impacted — meaning it's stuck deep in the ear canal — it can create the perfect conditions for infection. Moisture or bacteria trapped behind the wax can lead to inflammation or infection of the surrounding skin.

This can happen when people try to clean their ears at home using cotton buds or other objects, unintentionally pushing the wax deeper. At times this may evencompact the wax against the eardrum, causing more discomfort and increasing the risk of damage.

Common Causes of Infections due to Ear Wax Buildup

There are a number of ways ear wax can build up and cause infection. 

Some of the most common causes include:

Long-term wax build-up

Wax naturally moves out of the ear, but sometimes this process doesn’t work efficiently.

Improper ear cleaning

Using cotton buds or hairpins can push wax further inside.

Water trapped behind wax

Common for swimmers or after showers, moisture can’t escape, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.

Untreated ear infections

If you’ve had recurring infections, they can change how wax builds up or drains.

Understanding the cause can help prevent future problems, especially if you’re someone who experiences frequent wax blockages.

Symptoms of Infections due to Ear wax Buildup

Recognising the signs of infections due to ear wax buildup can prevent it from becoming more serious. Symptoms may include:

• Persistent ear pain or a dull ache

• A sense of fullness or pressure in the ear

• Foul-smelling discharge or pus

• Itching, swelling, or redness in the ear canal

• Temporary hearing loss or muffled hearing

• A warm feeling in or around the ear

• In some cases, fever or fatigue

  
  

If you're experiencing one or more of these symptoms, do not attempt to clean the ear yourself. Instead, seek professional help from an audiologist experienced in ear health.

Why You Shouldn’t Try to Remove Ear wax Yourself

It might be tempting to deal with the problem at home, especially if you’re in discomfort, but using cotton buds, ear candles, or oil drops can make things worse. Here’s why:

• Pushing wax deeper – making the blockage tighter and more painful

• Injuring the ear canal or eardrum – which could worsen infection or cause bleeding

• Spreading the infection – bacteria can be forced further into the ear

  
  

Instead, professional clinics use medical-grade tools and expertise to safely remove wax and assess infection.

How We Remove Ear wax at Family Hearing Auckland

At Family Hearing, we specialise in safe, gentle ear wax removal using microsuction — a method widely regarded as the gold standard. Here is our ear wax removal process:

Initial Assessment

We begin by carefully examining your ears using a microscope to determine the extent of the blockage and identify any signs of infection.

Microsuction Procedure

Using a small suction device, we remove the wax and any discharge without introducing moisture or pressure. Unlike syringing, microsuction is safe even when infection is present, as it doesn’t force anything into the ear canal.

Aftercare & Advice

If your ear is infected, we’ll provide guidance on what to do next — including whether a referral to your GP is needed for ear drops, antibiotics or further treatment.

Prevention Tips

We’ll advise on how to prevent future build-up, safe cleaning techniques, and whether routine wax checks might benefit you.

When Should You Seek Help?

If you're experiencing ear discomfort, reduced hearing, discharge, or pain — particularly if symptoms persist for more than 24–48 hours — book an appointment with a professional.

Ignoring symptoms of infections due to excessive ear wax build up can lead to complications such as:

• Persistent infections

• Hearing difficultiesloss

• Balance issues

• More difficulty and discomfort during the procedure

• In rare cases, damage to the middle ear

  
  

Our Auckland audiology team is here to help you resolve the issue safely and quickly, restoring comfort and protecting your hearing health.

What Makes Our Ear wax Removal Different

At Family Hearing, we treat every patient with care and professionalism. What sets us apart:

• Qualified Audiologists – Experienced, local experts who know what to look for.

• Microsuction Specialists – The safest, most effective method of removal.

• Patient-Centred Care – We explain everything and keep you comfortable.

• Location Convenient – Based in Auckland, with easy access and flexible booking times.

Book Your Ear wax Removal Appointment Today

If you're dealing with ear discomfort or signs of infection, don’t wait. Early treatment is the best way to protect your hearing and avoid complications.

Book your ear wax removal appointment at our Auckland clinic today. Our expert team is here to help you hear clearly and comfortably — with the care and professionalism you deserve.

Our Auckland audiology clinic offers comprehensive ear health support for the whole family, including hearing tests for adults and children, Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) assessments, hearing aids, and more.