Earwax might not be the most attractive topic, but it plays an essential part in keeping your ears healthy. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require routine cleaning endeavours, 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 may cause issues at times. 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.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is frequently misunderstood, yet it has a practical purpose. Its primary role is to protect your ears.
Earwax serves as a protective shield, catching debris and microorganisms that could possibly 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 vulnerable to harm and illness.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
Generally, normal maintenance is sufficient and no extra cleaning is required. Your ears have a natural ability to remove dirt on their own. Routine daily actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement help in the removal of earwax by slowly propelling it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or washed off.
For the majority of individuals, earwax removal is not a problem that typically calls for attention. But for saome people, it can build up and become an issue.
The Unseen Dangers of Excessive Earwax Buildup
Even though 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.
When earwax becomes a concern: indications of a potential issue
- Cotton swabs are often used by people to clean their ears; however, this action may unintentionally push earwax further down the ear canal, causing blockages. It’s okay to use these gently around the outer ear, but avoid inserting them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs can hinder the ear’s natural process of removing earwax, causing it to accumulate and potentially lead to blockages.
- Excessive earwax production: A common problem for some people, leading to a higher risk of earwax accumulation and potential impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muted sound
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Vertigo or balance issues
- Ear smell or drainage
In some situations, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some assistance.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
It’s recommended to see a professional if you’re dealing with earwax accumulation. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their clinic. Some individuals try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be useful, but it’s smart to consult your provider first– especially if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a history of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
Seek Guidance When Unsure
Earwax is usually a good thing, but if it’s troubling you, don’t ignore it. We’re dedicated to assisting you in maintaining ear health and preserving sharp hearing.
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 experts.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai
