While earwax might not be a thrilling subject, it serves a crucial purpose in preserving the health of your ears. As opposed to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which need routine upkeep to stay clean, earwax is typically self-sufficient and doesn’t require frequent attention. Overly frequent attempts to get rid of it can actually be detrimental. So, is earwax bad? The short answer is no, but it can occasionally become troublesome. These are the fundamental things to be mindful of.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural substance made by glands inside of 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 serves as a defensive shield, catching debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also assists in preserving moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to avoid dryness and soreness. 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?
Typically, regular maintenance is sufficient and no additional cleaning is required. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to remove dirt on their own. Everyday activities– like chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help push old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
For the majority of individuals, earwax removal is not a problem that normally requires attention. However, over time, it can build up and turn into a problem for some individuals.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
Although earwax typically benefits our bodies, it can sometimes result in issues, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too far up into the ear canal.
Here’s when earwax might develop into a problem:
- Cotton swabs are often used by individuals to clean their ears; however, this action may inadvertently push earwax further down the ear canal, causing obstructions. It’s okay to use these carefully 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 accumulate and potentially result in blockages.
- Excessive earwax production: A prevalent issue for some people, resulting in a higher risk of earwax accumulation and potential impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Watch For
If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:
- Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muted sound
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Problems with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax might lead to an infection in certain instances. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
It’s best to see a professional if you’re coping with earwax buildup. Your regular doctor, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their clinic. Some individuals explore home remedies such as non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before attempting these methods, particularly if you have a history of ear problems, such as ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is typically a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t disregard it. We’re committed to assisting you in maintaining ear health and preserving sharp hearing.
Contact us to set up an appointment if you’re worried 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