While earwax may not be a thrilling subject, it has a crucial function in maintaining the health of your ears. In contrast to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which require routine upkeep to remain clean, earwax is typically self-sufficient and doesn’t demand frequent attention. Overly frequent efforts to eliminate it can actually be detrimental. 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.
It’s a combination of secretions and dead skin cells, and despite its reputation, earwax is actually beneficial. Its primary role is to protect your ears.
Earwax acts like a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can get to your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, reducing dryness and irritation. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no specific cleaning is needed. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to get rid of dirt on their own. Routine everyday actions like 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 washed off.
Most children and adults never have to b e concerned about eliminating earwax. But for saome people, it can build up and become a problem.
When Earwax Becomes a Problem
While earwax is typically a friend to our bodies, there are times it can become problematic, especially if it becomes impacted (blocked or crammed too far into the ear canal).
Here’s when earwax may become 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 an obstruction. It’s okay to use these gently around the outer ear, but avoid inserting them into the ear canal.
- Wearing earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs: These devices can prevent earwax from naturally finding its way out of the ear, leading to accumulation.
- Excessive earwax production: A prevalent issue for some individuals, leading to a higher likelihood of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Signs of Impacted Earwax
If earwax accumulates too much, you might experience:
- Hearing loss or muted hearing
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Problems with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
In some situations, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
Speaking with a medical professional is recommended if you are noticing extreme earwax build-up. 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 effective, but it’s smart to check with your provider first– especially if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a history of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is typically helpful, but if it is causing discomfort, address the issue. 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 accumulation or any changes in your hearing.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai