Earwax may not be the most attractive topic, but it plays an important role in keeping your ears healthy. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate regular cleaning endeavours, earwax normally manages itself. In fact, trying to remove it too often can do more harm than good. So, is earwax bad? The short answer is no, but it can occasionally become troublesome. These are the key things to be mindful of.
What Is Earwax?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside your ear canal.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is often misunderstood, yet it has a useful purpose. Its main function? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax works as a protective shield, catching debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps in maintaining moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to avoid dryness and soreness. Without it, your ears would be more prone to infection and damage.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
Typically, normal upkeep is sufficient and no extra cleaning is needed. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Everyday activities– like chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help drive old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or rinses away.
For the majority of individuals, earwax removal is not a problem that typically requires attention. But for saome people, it can build up and become an issue.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Buildup
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).
When earwax becomes a concern: signs of a potential problem
- 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. You can safely use these around the outer ear, but do not insert 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 obstructions.
- Excessive earwax creation: A common problem for some people, resulting in a higher likelihood of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
If earwax accumulates too much, you might experience:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muted sound
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Vertigo or balance issues
- Odor or discharge from the ear
In some situations, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. When you experience these signs, it’s important to seek help.
Leave Earwax Removal to a Professional
It’s best to see a professional if you’re dealing with earwax accumulation. Your primary care doctor, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physician can safely and comfortably remove it in the office. Some individuals experiment with home remedies such as non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be effective, 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.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is usually beneficial, but if it is causing discomfort, address the issue. We’re committed to assisting you in preserving ear health and maintaining sharp hearing.
If you’re experiencing abnormal hearing changes or suspect an earwax blockage, reach out to us to arrange a consultation with one of our specialists.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai