Earwax - Diagnosis 

You don't need to have a test for your earwax to be diagnosed. If you have a history of recurrent earwax problems, you will probably know when you have another build-up of earwax.

If you have earwax-related problems, your GP or a hearing specialist will examine both ears using an instrument called an auriscope. An auriscope, also known as an otoscope, has a light at one end to allow the inside of your ear to be seen.

On examining the inside of your ear, your doctor will be able to see whether there is a build-up of earwax and whether it is impacted (firmly lodged in your ear canal). If you have hearing loss, it may be due to impacted earwax.