Earwax might not be the most attractive topic, but it plays an essential part in keeping your ears healthy. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate routine cleaning efforts, earwax normally takes care of itself. Overly frequent efforts to get rid of it can actually be detrimental. Here’s what you should know.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a natural substance made by glands inside of your ear canal.
It’s a blend of secretions and dead skin cells, and in spite of its reputation, earwax is actually beneficial. Its main job? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax serves 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 irritation. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
Typically, regular upkeep is sufficient and no extra cleaning is required. Your ears have a natural ability to remove dirt on their own. Routine everyday actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement aid in the elimination of earwax by slowly directing it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or rinsed off.
Most children and adults never need to worry about eliminating earwax. But for some, it can accumulate and become an issue.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Accumulation
Although earwax typically helps our bodies, it can occasionally result in problems, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
Here’s when earwax might develop into a problem:
- Using cotton swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually push wax deeper into the canal, creating an obstruction. You can safely use these around the outer ear, but do not insert 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.
- Excessive earwax creation: A common problem for some people, resulting in a higher likelihood of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Look for
If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:
- Hearing loss or muffled hearing
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Problems with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Odor or discharge from the ear
In some cases, impacted earwax can even lead to an infection. When you experience these symptoms, it’s essential to seek help.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
Speaking with a medical professional is recommended if you are experiencing 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 experiment with home remedies such as non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good plan to talk with your healthcare provider before attempting these strategies, particularly 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 a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t disregard it. We’re dedicated to assisting you in maintaining ear health and preserving 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