Earwax may not be the most attractive topic, but it plays an essential part in keeping your ears healthy. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require routine cleaning efforts, earwax usually takes care of itself. Overly frequent efforts to get rid of it can actually be counterproductive. Here’s what you should know.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Cerumen, also called earwax, is a natural material generated by glands located in your ear canal.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is frequently misunderstood, yet it serves a practical purpose. Its main function? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax acts like a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can get to 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 defensive system, your ears would be more vulnerable to harm and illness.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
Typically, normal upkeep is adequate and no extra cleaning is required. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to remove dirt on their own. Regular daily actions like eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement help in the removal of earwax by gradually directing it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or washed off.
For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a concern that normally requires attention. But for some, it can build up and become a problem.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Buildup
Although earwax typically helps our bodies, it can sometimes lead to problems, especially when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too far up into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a worry: indications of a possible issue
- Cotton swabs are often utilized by people to clean their ears; however, this action might inadvertently push earwax further into the ear canal, leading to 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 impede the ear’s natural process of clearing out earwax, causing it to collect and potentially result in blockages.
- Excessive earwax creation: A prevalent issue for some individuals, resulting in a higher risk of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Look for
If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muted sound
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Odor or excretion from the ear
In some cases, 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 expert is recommended if you are noticing excessive earwax build-up. Your primary care doctor, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor can safely and comfortably eliminate it in the office. Some people explore home remedies such as non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be effective, but it’s smart to check with 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 typically a good thing, but if it’s troubling you, don’t disregard it. We’re committed to supporting 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