Earwax may not be the most attractive topic, but it plays an important part in keeping your ears healthy. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate routine cleaning efforts, earwax usually takes care of 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 fundamental things to be aware of.
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 beneficial. Its main role is to protect your ears.
Earwax works as a protective shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal hydrated and healthy, reducing dryness and inflammation. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most cases, no special cleaning is required. Your ears are made to clean themselves out. Daily activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help push old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or rinses away.
For the majority of individuals, earwax removal is not a concern that typically requires attention. But for saome people, it can accumulate and become an issue.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
Although earwax generally benefits our bodies, it can occasionally result in problems, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a concern: signs of a potential problem
- Utilizing cotton swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually press wax deeper into the canal, creating an obstruction. It’s fine 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 impede the ear’s natural process of removing earwax, causing it to accumulate and potentially lead to obstructions.
- Producing too much wax: Some individuals normally produce more earwax than others, which can increase the possibility of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Watch For
If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:
- Hearing loss or muted hearing
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Vertigo or balance issues
- Odor or discharge from the ear
Impacted earwax might lead to an infection in certain circumstances. When you encounter these signs, it’s important to seek help.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
It’s recommended to consult a professional if you’re dealing with earwax buildup. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their office. Some individuals explore home remedies including non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good plan to consult with your healthcare provider before trying these methods, particularly if you have a history of ear problems, such as ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you wear hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is usually a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t ignore it. Our team is here to help you keep your ears healthy and your hearing clear.
Contact us to set up an appointment if you’re worried 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
