Earwax might not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an essential role in keeping your ears healthy. As opposed to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which need routine maintenance to remain clean, earwax is typically self-sufficient and doesn’t require constant attention. In fact, trying to remove it too often can do more harm than good. Here’s what you should know.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Cerumen, also referred to as earwax, is a natural substance generated by glands located in your ear canal.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is frequently misunderstood, yet it has a practical purpose. Its main job? Protecting your ears.
Earwax serves as a protective shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could possibly harm the fragile surface of your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal hydrated and healthy, reducing dryness and irritation. Without it, your ears would be more prone to infection and damage.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
Generally, regular maintenance is sufficient and no extra cleaning is required. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Daily activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help drive old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
For the majority of individuals, earwax removal is not a concern that typically requires attention. But for saome people, it can accumulate and become a problem.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Buildup
While earwax is typically a friend to our bodies, there are times it can become problematic, particularly if it becomes impacted (blocked or pushed too far into the ear canal).
When earwax becomes a worry: signs of a possible problem
- Cotton swabs are commonly utilized by individuals to clean their ears; however, this action might inadvertently push earwax further down the ear canal, leading to blockages. 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 clearing out earwax, causing it to collect and potentially result in obstructions.
- Excessive earwax production: A prevalent problem for some individuals, leading to a higher likelihood of earwax accumulation and potential impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
Excessive Earwax: Potential symptoms and repercussions to be aware of:
- Hearing loss or muffled hearing
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Pain or pressure in the ear
- Vertigo or balance problems
- Ear smell or drainage
In some cases, impacted earwax can even lead to an infection. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Safe Earwax Removal: Leave It to the Pros
It’s best to consult a professional if you’re coping with earwax accumulation. Your primary care provider, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physician can safely and comfortably remove it in the office. Some people try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be useful, but it’s smart to consult your provider 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 usually helpful, but if it is causing discomfort, address the issue. We’re dedicated to assisting you in preserving ear health and preserving sharp hearing.
Contact us to set up an appointment if you’re concerned 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