(501) 463-6147
Listen Better Audiology
Earwax Cleaning & Cerumen Removal
in Malvern, Arkansas
Professional earwax evaluation and removal from an experienced audiologist helping patients maintain comfortable hearing and healthy ears.
Earwax, also called cerumen, is a normal substance that helps protect the ear canal by trapping debris and maintaining moisture. However, when too much earwax builds up or becomes impacted, it may affect hearing, comfort, and hearing aid performance.
At Listen Better Audiology, Holly provides professional earwax evaluation and cerumen removal in a personalized clinical setting. Serving Malvern and the surrounding communities, Holly can determine whether earwax may be contributing to your symptoms and recommend appropriate care.

Common Factors & Prevention Tips
What Causes Earwax Buildup?
Earwax buildup can happen for many reasons. Some people naturally produce more earwax, while others may have ear canal characteristics that make removal more difficult.
Common factors that may contribute to buildup include:
- Differences in ear canal shape
- Individual earwax production
- Ear canal hair
- Genetics
- Hearing aid, earmold, earbud, or earplug use
- Attempts to clean ears with cotton swabs
- A history of recurring earwax blockage

Key Warning Signs & What to Look For
Signs You May Have Impacted Earwax
- A blocked or plugged sensation
- Reduced or muffled hearing
- Ear discomfort or itching
- Hearing aid feedback
- Weak or inconsistent hearing aid performance
- Difficulty obtaining accurate hearing test results
Impacts on Sound Clarity & Device Function
How Earwax Can Affect Hearing & Hearing Aids
Excessive earwax can interfere with the way sound travels through the ear canal. This may cause temporary changes in hearing or make sounds seem quieter or less clear.
For hearing aid users, earwax may also:
- Block hearing aid receivers or components
- Cause feedback or whistling
- Affect sound quality
- Impact the comfort or fit of hearing aids and earmolds
- Interfere with hearing evaluations

Professional Care for Clearer Ears
What to Expect During Cerumen Removal
Before removing earwax, Holly reviews your symptoms and relevant ear history. The ear canal and eardrum are examined to determine whether removal is appropriate.
The process may include:
- Reviewing symptoms and concerns
- Examining the ear canal and eardrum
- Determining whether removal is appropriate
- Selecting an appropriate removal approach
- Checking the ear after removal
- Recommending medical care when necessary

Best Practices for Daily Maintenance
Earwax Care for Hearing Aid & Earmold Users
People who wear hearing aids or earmolds may benefit from regular ear checks. Hearing devices sit close to or inside the ear canal, which can make wax buildup more noticeable.
Hearing aid users should also follow recommended care practices, including:
- Keeping hearing aid components clean
- Replacing wax filters and other replaceable parts as recommended
- Monitoring changes in sound quality or comfort
Impacts on Sound Clarity & Device Function
Avoiding At-Home Ear Cleaning Problems
Many people try to clean their ears at home, but some methods can create additional problems. Cotton swabs and other objects may push wax deeper into the ear canal rather than removing it.
To protect your ears:
- Avoid placing objects inside the ear canal
- Be cautious with at-home ear cleaning products
- Seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider when symptoms occur
