While earwax might not be a thrilling subject, it serves a critical function in preserving the health of your ears. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require regular cleaning endeavours, earwax usually takes care of itself. Overly frequent attempts to eliminate it can actually be detrimental. Here’s what you should know.

What Exactly Is Cerumen?

Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside of your ear canal.
Earwax, a mixture of secretions and dead skin cells, is often misunderstood, yet it serves a useful purpose. Its primary role is to protect your ears.

Earwax works as a defensive 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 discomfort. If it weren’t for this protective system, your ears would be more vulnerable to harm and illness.

Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?

Generally, normal upkeep is sufficient and no additional cleaning is needed. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Everyday activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving about– help drive old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or rinses away.

Most kids and adults never have to worry about eliminating earwax. However, with time, it can build up and become a problem for some individuals.

When Earwax Becomes a Problem

While earwax is usually 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).

When earwax becomes a worry: indications of a potential issue

• Utilizing cotton swabs: Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually press wax deeper into the canal, creating an obstruction. 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 hinder the ear’s natural process of removing earwax, causing it to collect and potentially lead to blockages.
• Making too much wax: Some individuals normally generate more earwax than others, which can increase the possibility of impaction.

Signs of Impacted Earwax

If earwax accumulates too much, you may experience:

• Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muted sound
• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
• Pain or pressure in the ear
• Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
• Ear smell or drainage

Impacted earwax may cause an infection in certain circumstances. When you experience these signs, it’s essential to seek help.

Safe Earwax Removal: Leave It to the Pros

It’s recommended to consult a professional if you’re coping with earwax accumulation. 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 plan to consult with your healthcare provider before attempting these methods, especially if you have a history of ear problems, such as ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you use hearing aids.

Seek Guidance When Unsure

Earwax is typically a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t disregard it. We’re committed to supporting you in maintaining 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