What may increase your risk for problems from earwax?

Content provided by Healthwise

What may increase your risk for problems from earwax?

Many conditions, lifestyle choices, medications, and diseases interfere with your ability to heal or fight infection. You may be at risk for a more serious problem from your symptoms if you have any of the following. Be sure to tell your health professional.

Conditions

A history of a birth defect, surgery, or injury that altered the normal ear structure
A history of compacted earwax
A history of eczema or psoriasis involving the ear canal
A history of a ruptured eardrum or prior ear surgery
Ear tubes in place
Previous surgery to remove the spleen (splenectomy)
Prior radiation therapy to the head or neck
Significant hearing loss
Use hearing aids

Lifestyle choices

Alcohol abuse or withdrawal
Drug abuse or withdrawal
Swimming and other water sports

Medications

Corticosteroid treatment
Medications to prevent organ transplant rejection
Medications used to treat cancer (chemotherapy)
Radiation therapy

Diseases

Cancer
Diabetes
HIV infection
Sickle cell disease

Credits

Print Email SHARE

Author	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Primary Medical Reviewer	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology
Last Updated	February 13, 2008

Print Email Twitter Facebook MySpace AIM More

Last updated:	February 13, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.