While earwax may not be an exciting subject, it serves a crucial purpose in preserving the health of your ears. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate regular cleaning endeavors, 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 might cause issues at times. Here’s what you should know.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Cerumen, also referred to as earwax, is a natural substance produced by glands located in your ear canal.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is often misunderstood, yet it serves a practical purpose. Its primary role is to safeguard your ears.
Earwax serves as a defensive shield, catching debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also assists in preserving moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to avoid dryness and soreness. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most cases, no specific cleaning is needed. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Everyday activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help push 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. However, with time, it can build up and turn into a concern for some people.
The Unseen 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 pushed too far into the ear canal).
Here’s when earwax may develop into an issue:
- Using cotton swabs: Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually push wax deeper into the canal, causing 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 clearing out earwax, causing it to collect and potentially lead to blockages.
- Producing too much wax: Some people naturally generate more earwax than others, which can raise the possibility of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Watch For
Excessive Earwax: Possible symptoms and consequences to be aware of:
- Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muted sound
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Odor or discharge from the ear
Impacted earwax may lead to an infection in certain circumstances. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some assistance.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
Consulting a medical expert is advised if you are experiencing extreme earwax accumulation. Your primary care provider, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physician can safely and comfortably eliminate it in the office. Some individuals try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good plan to talk with your healthcare provider before trying these strategies, especially if you have a history of ear issues, such as ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you wear hearing aids.
Seek Guidance When Unsure
Earwax is usually a good thing, but if it’s troubling you, don’t ignore it. We’re committed to supporting you in preserving ear health and maintaining sharp hearing.
Contact us to schedule 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