While earwax might not be an exciting subject, it has a crucial function in maintaining the health of your ears. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate regular cleaning efforts, earwax usually takes care of itself. Overly frequent efforts to eliminate it can actually be counterproductive. Earwax is not inherently harmful, but it may cause problems at times. Here’s what you should know.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Cerumen, also called earwax, is a natural substance produced by glands located in your ear canal.
Earwax, a mixture of secretions and dead skin cells, is often misunderstood, yet it has a useful purpose. Its main role is to safeguard your ears.
Earwax serves as a defensive shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could possibly harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps in maintaining moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to avoid dryness and soreness. If it weren’t for this protective system, your ears would be more susceptible to harm and illness.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most cases, no special cleaning is required. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Daily activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving about– help push old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
For the majority of individuals, earwax removal is not a problem that normally calls for attention. However, over time, it can accumulate and become a concern for some people.
The Unseen Dangers of Excessive Earwax Buildup
Although earwax generally helps our bodies, it can occasionally lead to problems, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too far up into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a concern: indications of a potential problem
- Cotton swabs are commonly utilized by individuals to clean their ears; however, this action might unintentionally push earwax further into the ear canal, causing obstructions. It’s okay to use these gently 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 removing earwax, causing it to collect and potentially lead to blockages.
- Excessive earwax production: A prevalent issue for some individuals, leading to a higher likelihood of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Signs of Impacted Earwax
Excessive Earwax: Possible symptoms and consequences to be aware of:
- Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muted sound
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Vertigo or balance issues
- Odor or excretion from the ear
Impacted earwax might lead to an infection in certain circumstances. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Leave Earwax Removal to a Professional
It’s recommended to consult 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 clinic. Some people explore home remedies including non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good plan to talk with your healthcare provider before trying these strategies, particularly if you have a history of ear issues, including ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you wear hearing aids.
Seek Guidance When Unsure
Earwax is typically helpful, but if it is causing discomfort, address the problem. We’re dedicated to assisting you in maintaining ear health and preserving sharp hearing.
If you’re experiencing unusual hearing changes or suspect an earwax blockage, reach out to us to set up a consultation with one of our specialists.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai