What Happens When There Is Earwax Blockage? Risks And Treatments Our ear canals are protected by a type of waxy oil known as cerumen that we know as earwax. Cerumen protects the ear from microorganisms, dust, debris, and even foreign particles. This substance protects the ear canal from moisture, injury, infection, and foreign objects. However, too much earwax may lead to earwax blockage that can harm your hearing health and affect your hearing ability as...