can a build up of ear wax cause earache

[EnlightenedOwl]

got earache put some drops in to soften wax as thought was the problem and a lot of wax has come out - still sore though?

Yes.

Have you tried warm olive oil? It gets LOADS of wax out and is very soothing. Warm up (very gently!!!) and pipette it into ear. Then lie there for a few minutes. Then roll onto other side and catch the oil in a tissue. Will usually be a manky brown colour as it melts the wax. The pain won't go straight away but if you take some Ibuprofen that will help with the inflammation.

thanks really is very sore though wonder if an infection as well, may go to docs next week if no better.

Don't warm it, room temperature is fine but you might find you need to add the softening drops for a few days to get any relief and it may feel worse, as in more blocked, reduced hearing, before it feels better.

It might be worth making an appointment with your practice nurse to let him/her have a look in your ear to see if it's blocked. If you've softened the wax and your ear is blocked then she/he might irrigate your ear and remove the wax.