How can earwax block sound from reaching the eardrum?

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Earwax, or cerumen, typically migrates out of the ear naturally. However, if it is produced too rapidly, it can harden and accumulate within the external auditory canal.1

This accumulation creates a physical plug that obstructs the canal, preventing sound waves from traveling through the outer ear to reach the tympanic membrane, which is necessary for the transmission of sound. This condition, known as earwax impaction, can lead to symptoms such as sudden deafness.12