While earwax may not be an exciting subject, it serves a critical purpose in maintaining the health of your ears. Compared to 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. Earwax is not inherently harmful, but it may cause issues at times. Here’s what you should know.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural substance made by glands inside your ear canal.
Earwax, a mixture of secretions and dead skin cells, is often misunderstood, yet it has a useful purpose. Its primary role is to protect your ears.
Earwax works as a defensive shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the fragile surface of your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal hydrated and healthy, reducing dryness and inflammation. 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 required. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Everyday activities– like chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help drive old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or rinses away.
For the majority of individuals, earwax removal is not a problem that normally requires attention. But for saome people, it can build up and become an issue.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Accumulation
Although earwax typically benefits our bodies, it can occasionally result in problems, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a concern: signs of a possible problem
- Utilizing cotton swabs: Many individuals 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 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 collect and potentially result in blockages.
- Producing too much wax: Some individuals naturally generate more earwax than others, which can increase the possibility of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Look for
If earwax accumulates too much, you may experience:
- Hearing loss or muffled hearing
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
In some cases, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. When you encounter these signs, it’s essential to seek help.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
Consulting a medical expert is recommended if you are noticing extreme earwax accumulation. Your primary care provider, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physician can safely and comfortably remove it in the office. Some people 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 strategies, especially if you have a history of ear issues, 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 bothering you, don’t disregard it. Our team is here to help you keep your ears healthy and your hearing clear.
Contact us to set up an appointment if you’re worried about earwax buildup or any changes in your hearing.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai