Earwax may not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an important role in keeping your ears healthy. As opposed to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which need regular upkeep to stay 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. These are the key things to be aware of.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Cerumen, also called earwax, is a natural material produced by glands located in your ear canal.
It’s a blend of secretions and dead skin cells, and despite its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its main role is to protect your ears.
Earwax serves as a defensive shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could possibly harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps in preserving moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to prevent dryness and soreness. If it weren’t for this defensive system, your ears would be more vulnerable to harm and illness.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
Generally, regular upkeep is sufficient and no additional cleaning is required. Your ears have a natural ability to remove dirt on their own. Routine everyday actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement help in the elimination of earwax by slowly propelling it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or rinsed off.
Most kids and adults never have to worry about eliminating earwax. But for some, it can build up and become a problem.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Buildup
Even though earwax generally helps our bodies, it can sometimes lead to problems, particularly 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 might unintentionally push earwax further down the ear canal, causing blockages. It’s okay to use these gently 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.
- Excessive earwax creation: A common issue for some individuals, resulting in a higher likelihood of earwax accumulation and potential impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Watch For
Excessive Earwax: Potential symptoms and repercussions to be aware of:
- Hearing loss or muffled hearing
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Vertigo or balance issues
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax might cause an infection in certain instances. When you experience these signs, it’s essential to seek assistance.
Safe Earwax Removal: Leave It to the Pros
Consulting a medical professional is advised if you are experiencing excessive earwax accumulation. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their clinic. 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 doctor first– particularly if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a background 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 assisting you in preserving ear health and maintaining 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
