While earwax may not be a thrilling subject, it serves a crucial function in preserving the health of your ears. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require routine cleaning efforts, earwax usually takes care of itself. In fact, trying to remove it too often can do more harm than good. These are the key things to be mindful of.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Cerumen, also called earwax, is a natural substance produced by glands located in your ear canal.
It’s a blend of secretions and dead skin cells, and in spite of its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its main function? Protecting 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. If it weren’t for this defensive mechanism, your ears would be more susceptible to harm and illness.
Do You 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– like chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help drive old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or rinses away.
Most children and adults never need to worry about eliminating earwax. But for saome people, it can accumulate and become a problem.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
While earwax is typically a friend to our bodies, there are times it can cause trouble, especially if it becomes impacted (blocked or crammed too far into the ear canal).
When earwax becomes a concern: signs of a potential problem
- Using cotton swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually push wax deeper into the canal, causing a blockage. It’s okay to use these gently 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 finding its way out of the ear, resulting in buildup.
- Making too much wax: Some people normally generate more earwax than others, which can raise the possibility of impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
If earwax accumulates too much, you might experience:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muffled sound
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Problems with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Odor or excretion from the ear
Impacted earwax may lead to an infection in certain instances. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
Consulting a medical expert is advised if you are noticing extreme earwax build-up. Your primary care provider, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor can safely and comfortably eliminate it in the office. Some people explore home remedies such as non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider before trying these strategies, especially if you have a history of ear problems, including ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you wear hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is typically beneficial, but if it is causing discomfort, address the issue. 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 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
