Earwax might not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an important part in keeping your ears healthy. As opposed to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which require routine upkeep to remain clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t demand constant attention. 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 key things to be aware of.
What Is Earwax?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside your ear canal.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is often misunderstood, yet it serves a useful purpose. Its main job? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax works as a defensive shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps in preserving moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to prevent dryness and discomfort. If it weren’t for this defensive system, your ears would be more susceptible to harm and illness.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most cases, no specific cleaning is needed. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Regular everyday actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement aid in the elimination of earwax by slowly propelling it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or washed off.
For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a concern that normally requires attention. But for some, it can build up and become an issue.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
Even though earwax typically benefits our bodies, it can occasionally lead to problems, especially when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too far up into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a concern: signs of a potential issue
- Using cotton swabs: Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually press wax deeper into the canal, creating a blockage. It’s okay to use these carefully around the outer ear, but steer clear of 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 result in blockages.
- Producing too much wax: Some people naturally produce more earwax than others, which can raise the possibility of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Look for
If earwax builds up too much, you might experience:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muffled sound
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Vertigo or balance problems
- Ear smell or drainage
In some cases, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. When you encounter these symptoms, it’s essential to seek assistance.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
Consulting a medical professional is recommended if you are experiencing excessive earwax build-up. Your primary care doctor, 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. These can sometimes be effective, but it’s smart to consult your provider first– particularly if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a background of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
Seek Guidance When Unsure
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 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
