Earwax might not be the most attractive topic, but it plays an important part in keeping your ears healthy. In contrast to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which need regular maintenance to remain clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t demand 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 called earwax, is a natural material generated by glands located in your ear canal.
It’s a combination of secretions and dead skin cells, and in spite of its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its primary role is to protect your ears.
Earwax works as a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach your eardrum. It also assists in preserving moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to avoid dryness and discomfort. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no special cleaning is needed. Your ears have a natural ability to remove dirt on their own. Daily activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help drive old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or rinses away.
For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a problem that typically requires attention. However, over time, it can build up and become a problem for some people.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
While earwax is typically a friend to our bodies, there are times it can become problematic, particularly if it becomes impacted (blocked or crammed too far into the ear canal).
Here’s when earwax may develop into an issue:
- Utilizing cotton swabs: Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually press wax deeper into the canal, causing an obstruction. It’s okay to use these gently 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 removing earwax, causing it to collect and potentially result in blockages.
- Excessive earwax creation: A common issue for some people, resulting in a higher risk of earwax accumulation and potential impaction.
Signs of Impacted Earwax
If earwax accumulates too much, you may experience:
- Hearing loss or muffled hearing
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Vertigo or balance issues
- Ear smell or drainage
In some cases, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some assistance.
Leave Earwax Removal to a Professional
It’s best to see a professional if you’re coping with earwax accumulation. Your regular doctor, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their office. Some people try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be useful, but it’s smart to consult your provider first– especially if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a background of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
Seek Guidance When Unsure
Earwax is typically a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t ignore 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 concerned 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