While earwax might not be an exciting subject, it serves a crucial function in preserving the health of your ears. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate routine cleaning endeavours, earwax usually manages itself. Overly frequent attempts to eliminate it can actually be counterproductive. These are the fundamental things to be mindful of.

What Is Earwax?

Cerumen, also referred to as earwax, is a natural material 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 defensive shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, preventing dryness and inflammation. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.

Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?

Generally, normal upkeep is sufficient and no additional cleaning is required. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Daily activities– like chewing, talking, showering, and moving about– help push old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or rinses away.

For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a concern that normally calls for attention. But for some, it can build up and become a problem.

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 pushed too far into the ear canal).

When earwax becomes a worry: signs of a possible issue

• Cotton swabs are often utilized by people to clean their ears; however, this action might inadvertently push earwax further down the ear canal, leading to blockages. It’s okay to use these gently around the outer ear, but avoid 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 collect and potentially result in blockages.
• Excessive earwax production: A common issue for some individuals, leading to a higher risk of earwax accumulation and potential impaction.

Indications of Impacted Earwax

If earwax accumulates too much, you might experience:

• Hearing loss or muffled hearing
• An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
• Discomfort or pressure in the ear
• Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
• Odor or discharge from the ear

Impacted earwax may lead to an infection in certain circumstances. When you experience these symptoms, it’s important to seek assistance.

Leave Earwax Removal to a Professional

Consulting a medical expert is advised if you are noticing excessive earwax build-up. Your primary care doctor, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physician can safely and comfortably remove it in the office. Some people try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider before attempting these methods, especially if you have a history of ear issues, including ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you wear hearing aids.

When in Doubt, Ask

Earwax is typically helpful, but if it is causing discomfort, address the problem. Our team is here to help you keep your ears healthy and your hearing clear.

If you’re experiencing abnormal hearing changes or suspect an earwax blockage, 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