While earwax might not be an exciting subject, it has a critical purpose in maintaining the health of your ears. In contrast 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. In fact, trying to remove it too often can do more harm than good. Earwax is not inherently harmful, but it might cause issues at times. Here’s what you should know.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside of your ear canal.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is often misunderstood, yet it has a useful purpose. Its primary role is to safeguard your ears.
Earwax works as a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach your eardrum. It also helps in maintaining moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to prevent dryness and soreness. Without it, your ears would be more prone to infection and damage.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
Typically, regular upkeep is adequate and no extra cleaning is needed. Your ears are made to clean themselves out. 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 have to worry about eliminating earwax. However, with time, it can build up and become a concern for certain individuals.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Accumulation
Although earwax typically helps our bodies, it can sometimes result in problems, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
Here’s when earwax might become an issue:
- Utilizing cotton swabs: Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually press wax deeper into the canal, causing 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.
- Excessive earwax creation: A prevalent issue for some individuals, resulting in a higher likelihood of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Look for
Excessive Earwax: Possible symptoms and consequences to be aware of:
- Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muffled sound
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax might cause an infection in certain circumstances. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some assistance.
Safe Earwax Removal: Leave It to the Pros
It’s recommended to see a professional if you’re coping with earwax buildup. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their clinic. Some people experiment with home remedies including non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be useful, but it’s smart to check with your doctor first– particularly if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a history of ear infections, or you use 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 abnormal hearing changes or suspect an earwax obstruction, reach out to us to set up a consultation with one of our specialists.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai