Earwax might not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an essential part in keeping your ears healthy. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate regular cleaning endeavours, earwax normally manages itself. Overly frequent attempts to eliminate it can actually be counterproductive. So, is earwax bad? The short answer is no, but it can sometimes become troublesome. These are the key things to be aware of.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside your ear canal.
It’s a blend of secretions and dead skin cells, and in spite of its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its main job? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax acts like a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can get to your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal hydrated and healthy, reducing dryness and inflammation. 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?
Generally, normal maintenance is adequate and no additional cleaning is needed. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Daily activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving about– help push old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
Most children and adults never need to worry about removing earwax. But for some, it can accumulate and become a problem.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Accumulation
While earwax is usually a friend to our bodies, there are times it can become problematic, especially if it becomes impacted (blocked or pushed too far into the ear canal).
When earwax becomes a concern: signs of a possible problem
- Utilizing cotton swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually press wax deeper into the canal, causing an obstruction. You can safely use these around the outer ear, but do not put 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 result in obstructions.
- Producing too much wax: Some individuals normally generate more earwax than others, which can raise the chance of impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
If earwax builds up too much, you might experience:
- Hearing loss or muffled hearing
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Pain or pressure in the ear
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Odor or discharge from the ear
In some cases, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. When you experience these symptoms, it’s essential to seek assistance.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
Consulting a medical expert is advised if you are noticing excessive earwax build-up. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their office. Some people experiment with home remedies including non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be effective, 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.
Seek Guidance When Unsure
Earwax is usually a good thing, but if it’s troubling you, don’t disregard it. We’re dedicated to assisting you in preserving ear health and maintaining sharp hearing.
If you’re experiencing unusual hearing changes or suspect an earwax obstruction, reach out to us to set up a consultation with one of our experts.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai