Earwax may not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an important role in keeping your ears healthy. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require regular cleaning endeavours, earwax normally takes care of itself. Overly frequent attempts to eliminate it can actually be detrimental. Earwax is not intrinsically harmful, but it might cause problems at times. These are the fundamental things to be aware of.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside your ear canal.
Earwax, a mixture of secretions and dead skin cells, is frequently misunderstood, yet it serves a practical purpose. Its primary job? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax serves as a defensive shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could possibly harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal hydrated and healthy, reducing dryness and irritation. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most cases, no specific cleaning is required. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to get rid of dirt on their own. Daily activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help drive old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or rinses away.
Most kids and adults never need to b e concerned about removing earwax. However, over time, it can accumulate and turn into a concern for certain people.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
While earwax is usually a friend to our bodies, there are times it can cause trouble, particularly if it becomes impacted (blocked or pushed too far into the ear canal).
Here’s when earwax may become an issue:
- Cotton swabs are often used by people to clean their ears; however, this action may unintentionally push earwax further down the ear canal, causing obstructions. It’s fine to use these carefully around the outer ear, but avoid inserting them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs: These devices can prevent earwax from naturally working its way out of the ear, resulting in accumulation.
- Making too much wax: Some individuals naturally generate more earwax than others, which can increase the possibility of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Watch For
If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:
- Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muffled sound
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Pain or pressure in the ear
- Vertigo or balance problems
- Odor or discharge from the ear
In some cases, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. When you encounter these symptoms, it’s important to seek help.
Safe Earwax Removal: Leave It to the Pros
Speaking with a medical expert is recommended if you are noticing extreme earwax build-up. Your primary care provider, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physician can safely and comfortably remove it in the office. Some individuals try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider before trying these methods, especially if you have a history of ear problems, such as ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you wear hearing aids.
Seek Guidance When Unsure
Earwax is typically a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t ignore it. 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 blockage, reach out to us to set up a consultation with one of our experts.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai