While earwax may not be an exciting subject, it has a crucial purpose in preserving the health of your ears. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate routine cleaning efforts, earwax normally takes care of itself. Overly frequent efforts to eliminate it can actually be detrimental. Earwax is not inherently harmful, but it might cause issues at times. These are the key things to be mindful of.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside of your ear canal.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is frequently misunderstood, yet it serves a useful purpose. Its main role is to safeguard your ears.
Earwax acts like a barrier, trapping dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach your eardrum. It also assists in preserving moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to prevent dryness and discomfort. Without it, your ears would be more prone to infection and damage.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
Generally, regular upkeep is sufficient and no additional cleaning is needed. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to remove dirt on their own. Regular daily actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement help in the removal of earwax by gradually propelling it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or rinsed off.
Most children and adults never need to worry about removing earwax. But for some, it can build up and become a problem.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
Even though earwax generally helps our bodies, it can sometimes result in issues, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too far up into the ear canal.
Here’s when earwax might develop into a problem:
- Cotton swabs are often utilized by individuals to clean their ears; however, this action may inadvertently push earwax further down the ear canal, causing blockages. 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 hinder the ear’s natural process of clearing out earwax, causing it to collect and potentially lead to blockages.
- Excessive earwax creation: A common issue for some people, leading to a higher risk of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Watch For
Excessive Earwax: Possible symptoms and repercussions to be aware of:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muffled sound
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Problems with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax may lead to an infection in certain circumstances. When you encounter these symptoms, it’s important to seek assistance.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
It’s best to see a professional if you’re dealing with earwax buildup. Your primary care doctor, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physician can safely and comfortably eliminate it in the office. Some people try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider before attempting these methods, especially 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 usually helpful, but if it is causing discomfort, address the issue. We’re committed to supporting you in preserving ear health and preserving sharp hearing.
Contact us to set up 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