Experiencing a sudden increase in hearing sensitivity or the perception of sounds being very loud after ear wax removal can be a bit disconcerting, but it's not uncommon. There are a few reasons why this may occur:
Sudden Change in Sensation: If you had a significant amount of earwax buildup before the removal, your ears might have adapted to the reduced hearing ability. After the earwax is removed, the sudden change in sensation can make sounds feel much louder than you are used to.
Clearing of the Ear Canal: With the earwax removed, the ear canal is clear, allowing sound waves to travel more efficiently to the eardrum. This increased clarity can lead to a temporary sensation of everything being louder.
Temporary Change in Hearing: Earwax removal, especially if done improperly, can cause temporary changes in your hearing. It may take some time for your ears to readjust to their normal hearing sensitivity.
Inflammation or Irritation: The process of earwax removal can sometimes cause mild irritation or inflammation in the ear canal, which may lead to a temporary increase in sensitivity to sounds.
Underlying Issue: It's also possible that the earwax was masking an underlying hearing issue. Removing the earwax could have revealed an existing hearing problem that was previously unnoticed.
In most cases, this increased sensitivity to sounds should gradually return to normal within a few days as your ears readjust. However, if the sensitivity persists or is accompanied by pain, dizziness, or any other concerning symptoms, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional or an audiologist for a thorough evaluation.
To protect your ears during this time, you may want to avoid exposure to very loud noises and use earplugs if you're in a noisy environment. If you have concerns or questions about your hearing or ear health, seek professional medical advice for proper evaluation and guidance.