Earwax might not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an essential part in keeping your ears healthy. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require routine cleaning efforts, earwax normally takes care of itself. Overly frequent attempts to get rid of it can actually be counterproductive. Here’s what you should know.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural substance made by glands inside of your ear canal.
It’s a blend of secretions and dead skin cells, and in spite of its reputation, earwax is actually beneficial. Its main job? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax works as a protective shield, catching debris and microorganisms that could possibly harm the fragile surface of your eardrum. It also helps 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.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no special cleaning is required. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Everyday activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving about– help push old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
Most children and adults never have to b e concerned about eliminating earwax. But for some, it can accumulate and become an issue.
When Earwax Becomes a Problem
Even though earwax generally benefits our bodies, it can sometimes result in problems, especially when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
Here’s when earwax may become a problem:
- Cotton swabs are often used by individuals to clean their ears; however, this action may inadvertently push earwax further down the ear canal, leading to obstructions. You can safely use these around the outer ear, but do not put them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs can hinder the ear’s natural process of removing earwax, causing it to collect and potentially lead to obstructions.
- Excessive earwax production: A prevalent problem for some people, leading to a higher risk of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Signs of Impacted Earwax
If earwax accumulates too much, you might experience:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muffled sound
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Vertigo or balance problems
- Odor or discharge from the ear
In some cases, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. When you experience these signs, it’s important to seek assistance.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
It’s best 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 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 doctor first– particularly if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a history of ear infections, or 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 preserving sharp hearing.
Contact us to schedule an appointment if you’re concerned 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