Earwax might not be the most attractive topic, but it plays an important role in keeping your ears healthy. In contrast to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which need routine maintenance to stay clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t demand frequent attention. In fact, trying to remove it too often can do more harm than good. Here’s what you should know.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside your ear canal.
It’s a combination of secretions and dead skin cells, and in spite of its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its main job? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax serves as a defensive shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could possibly harm the fragile surface of your eardrum. It also helps in preserving moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to avoid dryness and discomfort. If it weren’t for this defensive mechanism, your ears would be more susceptible to harm and illness.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no specific cleaning is required. Your ears are made to clean themselves out. Everyday activities– like chewing, talking, showering, and moving about– help drive old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a concern that typically calls for attention. However, over time, it can accumulate and become a concern for some people.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Accumulation
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 possible issue
- Using 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 use these around the outer ear, but do not put 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.
- Making too much wax: Some people normally produce more earwax than others, which can increase the possibility of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Look for
If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:
- Hearing loss or muted hearing
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Odor or excretion from the ear
Impacted earwax might cause an infection in certain instances. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some assistance.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
Speaking with a medical expert is advised if you are experiencing excessive 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 explore home remedies such as non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be effective, but it’s smart to check with your provider first– especially 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 a good thing, but if it’s troubling you, don’t disregard 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 buildup or any changes in your hearing.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai
