While earwax may not be a thrilling subject, it serves a critical function in maintaining the health of your ears. As opposed to other bodily areas, including your teeth, feet, or skin, which need routine upkeep to stay clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t require frequent attention. In fact, trying to remove it too often can do more harm than good. Here’s what you should know.
What Is Earwax?
Cerumen, also referred to as earwax, is a natural material produced by glands located in your ear canal.
Earwax, a mixture of secretions and dead skin cells, is often misunderstood, yet it has a practical purpose. Its main function? Protecting your ears.
Earwax works as a defensive shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, preventing dryness and irritation. If it weren’t for this protective system, your ears would be more susceptible to harm and illness.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no specific cleaning is needed. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to remove dirt on their own. Regular daily actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement aid in the elimination of earwax by gradually propelling it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or rinsed off.
For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a problem that typically calls for attention. However, over time, it can accumulate and become a concern for some individuals.
The Unseen Dangers of Excessive Earwax Accumulation
Even though earwax typically benefits 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 might develop into an issue:
- Using cotton swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually push wax deeper into the canal, causing a blockage. You can safely use these around the outer ear, but do not insert 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 accumulate and potentially lead to obstructions.
- Making too much wax: Some people normally generate more earwax than others, which can increase the possibility of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Look for
If earwax accumulates too much, you may experience:
- Hearing loss or muted hearing
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
In some situations, impacted earwax can even lead to an infection. When you encounter these signs, it’s important to seek assistance.
Leave Earwax Removal to a Professional
Speaking with a medical expert is advised if you are experiencing extreme earwax build-up. Your regular doctor, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their office. Some people explore 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– especially if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a history of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is typically a good thing, but if it’s troubling you, don’t disregard it. We’re dedicated to supporting you in preserving ear health and maintaining sharp hearing.
Contact us to schedule 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