While earwax may not be an exciting subject, it has a critical purpose in preserving the health of your ears. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate routine cleaning endeavours, earwax normally manages itself. In fact, trying to remove it too often can do more harm than good. Earwax is not intrinsically harmful, but it might cause issues at times. Here’s what you should know.
What Is Earwax?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural substance made by glands inside your ear canal.
It’s a blend of secretions and dead skin cells, and despite its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its primary function? Protecting your ears.
Earwax acts like a barrier, trapping dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, reducing dryness and irritation. If it weren’t for this protective system, your ears would be more susceptible to harm and illness.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
Generally, regular maintenance is sufficient and no extra cleaning is needed. Your ears have a natural ability to get rid of dirt on their own. Daily activities– like chewing, talking, showering, and moving about– help push old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a concern that normally calls for attention. But for some, it can accumulate and become a problem.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
Even though earwax typically benefits our bodies, it can sometimes lead to issues, especially when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too far up into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a worry: indications of a potential issue
- Using cotton swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually press wax deeper into the canal, causing an obstruction. It’s okay to use these carefully around the outer ear, but avoid inserting them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs can impede the ear’s natural process of removing earwax, causing it to collect and potentially lead to obstructions.
- Excessive earwax production: A common issue for some individuals, leading to a higher risk of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Signs of Impacted Earwax
Excessive Earwax: Potential symptoms and consequences to be aware of:
- Hearing loss or muted hearing
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax might cause an infection in certain circumstances. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
It’s recommended to consult a professional if you’re dealing with earwax accumulation. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their office. Some people try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good plan to talk with your healthcare provider before trying these strategies, particularly if you have a history of ear problems, including ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is usually a good thing, but if it’s troubling you, don’t ignore it. We’re committed to assisting you in preserving ear health and maintaining sharp hearing.
Contact us to schedule an appointment if you’re concerned about earwax accumulation or any changes in your hearing.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai