Earwax may not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an essential role in keeping your ears healthy. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require regular cleaning endeavours, earwax normally manages itself. Overly frequent efforts to eliminate it can actually be counterproductive. Here’s what you should know.
What Is Earwax?
Cerumen, also referred to as earwax, is a natural substance produced by glands located in your ear canal.
It’s a blend of secretions and dead skin cells, and in spite of its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its primary function? Protecting your ears.
Earwax serves as a defensive shield, catching debris and microorganisms that could possibly harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal hydrated and healthy, reducing dryness and inflammation. If it weren’t for this protective mechanism, your ears would be more vulnerable to harm and illness.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no specific cleaning is required. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to remove dirt on their own. Routine everyday actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement aid in the removal of earwax by slowly directing it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or washed off.
Most children and adults never have to worry about removing earwax. But for some, it can accumulate and become an issue.
When Earwax Becomes a Problem
While earwax is typically a friend to our bodies, there are times it can cause trouble, especially if it becomes impacted (blocked or pushed too far into the ear canal).
Here’s when earwax might develop into an issue:
- Using cotton swabs: Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually push wax deeper into the canal, creating an obstruction. It’s okay to use these carefully around the outer ear, but steer clear of inserting them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs can hinder the ear’s natural process of clearing out earwax, causing it to accumulate and potentially lead to blockages.
- Making too much wax: Some people naturally generate more earwax than others, which can increase the chance of impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
Excessive Earwax: Possible symptoms and consequences to be aware of:
- Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muffled sound
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Pain or pressure in the ear
- Vertigo or balance issues
- Odor or discharge from the ear
In some situations, impacted earwax can even lead to an infection. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Leave Earwax Removal to a Professional
It’s best to consult a professional if you’re dealing with earwax accumulation. Your primary care doctor, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor can safely and comfortably remove it in the office. Some people explore home remedies such as non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be useful, but it’s smart to consult your doctor first– especially if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a background of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is usually helpful, but if it is causing discomfort, address the issue. Our team is here to help you keep your ears healthy and your hearing clear.
If you’re experiencing unusual hearing changes or suspect an earwax obstruction, reach out to us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai