A feeling of blocked ears is a common presentation in general practice. Often this is caused by excess wax in the auditory canal, with subsequent ear irrigations for wax accounting for around 2 000 000 visits to primary care in England and Wales each year. There are many other causes of a blocked ear sensation, including important ones that should not be missed. GPs should therefore have knowledge of the causes and treatment, and appreciate when ear, nose and throat referral may be required. This article addresses the clinical assessment and management of the most common and serious pathologies.
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