While earwax might not be an exciting subject, it serves a critical purpose in preserving the health of your ears. As opposed to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which need regular maintenance to stay clean, earwax is typically self-sufficient and doesn’t demand frequent attention. Overly frequent efforts to eliminate it can actually be counterproductive. So, is earwax bad? The short answer is no, but it can occasionally become problematic. These are the key things to be mindful of.
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 often misunderstood, yet it has a practical purpose. Its primary job? Protecting your ears.
Earwax works as a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can get to your eardrum. It also assists 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 susceptible to harm and illness.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most cases, no special cleaning is needed. Your ears have a natural ability to get rid of dirt on their own. Daily activities– like chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help push old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or rinses away.
Most kids and adults never need to worry about eliminating earwax. However, with time, it can build up and turn into a concern for certain individuals.
The Unseen Dangers of Excessive Earwax Buildup
Even though earwax generally benefits our bodies, it can occasionally lead to problems, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
Here’s when earwax might become an issue:
- Cotton swabs are often utilized by individuals to clean their ears; however, this action might inadvertently push earwax further down the ear canal, leading to blockages. You can safely utilize these around the outer ear, but do not insert them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs: These devices can stop earwax from naturally finding its way out of the ear, leading to buildup.
- Making too much wax: Some people normally generate more earwax than others, which can increase the chance of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Look for
Excessive Earwax: Possible symptoms and consequences to be aware of:
- Hearing loss or muffled hearing
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Vertigo or balance issues
- Odor or excretion from the ear
Impacted earwax might cause an infection in certain circumstances. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Safe Earwax Removal: Leave It to the Pros
It’s recommended to consult a professional if you’re coping with earwax accumulation. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their clinic. Some individuals experiment with home remedies including non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be useful, but it’s smart to check with 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 a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t disregard it. Our team is here to help you keep your ears healthy and your hearing clear.
Contact us to schedule 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