While earwax may not be a thrilling subject, it serves a critical purpose in maintaining the health of your ears. As opposed to other bodily areas, including your teeth, feet, or skin, which require regular maintenance to stay clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t demand frequent attention. Overly frequent attempts to get rid of it can actually be detrimental. Earwax is not inherently harmful, but it might cause problems at times. These are the key things to be mindful of.
What Is Earwax?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a natural substance made by glands inside your ear canal.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is frequently misunderstood, yet it serves a practical purpose. Its primary function? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax acts like a barrier, trapping dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can get to your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, preventing dryness and irritation. Without it, your ears would be more prone to infection and damage.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no specific cleaning is needed. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to remove dirt on their own. Daily activities– like chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help drive old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
For the majority of individuals, earwax removal is not a problem that typically requires attention. However, with time, it can build up and become a concern for certain individuals.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
Even though earwax generally helps our bodies, it can occasionally lead to problems, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a worry: indications of a possible problem
- Utilizing cotton swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually press wax deeper into the canal, creating a blockage. You can safely utilize these around the outer ear, but do not insert them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs: These devices can stop earwax from naturally finding its way out of the ear, leading to accumulation.
- Excessive earwax production: A common issue for some individuals, leading to a higher likelihood of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
Excessive Earwax: Potential symptoms and repercussions to be aware of:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muted sound
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Problems with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
In some cases, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Leave Earwax Removal to a Professional
It’s recommended to see a professional if you’re coping with earwax buildup. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their clinic. Some people try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good plan to consult with your healthcare provider before attempting these methods, especially if you have a history of ear problems, including ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you use hearing aids.
Seek Guidance When Unsure
Earwax is typically helpful, but if it is causing discomfort, address the problem. Our team is here to help you keep your ears healthy and your hearing clear.
If you’re experiencing unusual hearing changes or suspect an earwax obstruction, reach out to us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai
