While earwax may not be a thrilling subject, it has a critical function in preserving the health of your ears. As opposed to other bodily areas, including your teeth, feet, or skin, which require regular upkeep to remain clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t demand constant attention. Overly frequent efforts to get rid of it can actually be counterproductive. Here’s what you should know.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a natural substance made by glands inside your ear canal.
It’s a blend of secretions and dead skin cells, and despite its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its main job? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax acts like a barrier, trapping dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach your eardrum. It also assists in maintaining 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.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
Typically, regular maintenance is adequate and no additional cleaning is needed. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Routine daily actions like eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement aid in the removal of earwax by slowly propelling it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or washed off.
Most children and adults never need to b e concerned about removing earwax. However, with time, it can accumulate and become a concern for certain individuals.
When Earwax Becomes a Problem
Although earwax typically helps our bodies, it can sometimes lead to issues, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a worry: indications of a potential problem
- Cotton swabs are commonly utilized by people to clean their ears; however, this action might inadvertently push earwax further into the ear canal, causing blockages. It’s okay to use these carefully around the outer ear, but avoid 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.
- Excessive earwax production: A prevalent issue for some people, resulting in a higher risk of earwax accumulation and potential impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:
- Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muted sound
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Pain or pressure in the ear
- Problems with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Odor or discharge from the ear
In some cases, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Leave Earwax Removal to a Professional
It’s best to see a professional if you’re coping with earwax buildup. Your regular doctor, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their office. Some people try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good plan to consult with your healthcare provider before trying these methods, especially if you have a history of ear issues, such as ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you use hearing aids.
Seek Guidance When Unsure
Earwax is typically beneficial, but if it is causing discomfort, address the issue. We’re committed to assisting you in preserving ear health and maintaining sharp hearing.
Contact us to set up an appointment if you’re worried about earwax accumulation or any changes in your hearing.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai