While earwax might not be a thrilling subject, it has a crucial purpose in preserving the health of your ears. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate routine cleaning efforts, earwax normally manages itself. In fact, trying to remove it too often can do more harm than good. These are the fundamental things to be mindful of.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural substance made by glands inside of your ear canal.
It’s a blend of secretions and dead skin cells, and despite its reputation, earwax is actually beneficial. Its main role is to protect your ears.
Earwax works as a protective shield, catching debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the fragile surface of your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, reducing dryness and irritation. Without it, your ears would be more prone to infection and damage.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
Typically, normal maintenance is sufficient and no additional cleaning is needed. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to get rid of dirt on their own. Daily activities– like chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help push old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
Most children and adults never need to b e concerned about removing earwax. But for saome people, it can accumulate and become an issue.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
While earwax is typically a friend to our bodies, there are times it can cause trouble, particularly if it becomes impacted (blocked or crammed too far into the ear canal).
Here’s when earwax might become an issue:
- Cotton swabs are commonly used by people to clean their ears; however, this action may unintentionally push earwax further into the ear canal, causing blockages. You can safely use these around the outer ear, but do not put them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs can hinder the ear’s natural process of removing earwax, causing it to accumulate and potentially lead to blockages.
- Making too much wax: Some individuals naturally produce more earwax than others, which can increase the possibility of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Watch For
Excessive Earwax: Potential symptoms and repercussions to be aware of:
- Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muted sound
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Vertigo or balance problems
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax might cause an infection in certain circumstances. When you experience these symptoms, it’s essential to seek assistance.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
It’s recommended to see a professional if you’re coping with earwax buildup. Your primary care provider, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physician can safely and comfortably eliminate 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 attempting these strategies, particularly if you have a history of ear problems, such as ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you wear hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is typically a good thing, but if it’s troubling you, don’t disregard 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 obstruction, reach out to us to arrange a consultation with one of our specialists.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai