While earwax might not be an exciting subject, it has a crucial purpose in preserving the health of your ears. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require regular cleaning endeavours, earwax normally manages itself. Overly frequent efforts to eliminate it can actually be counterproductive. So, is earwax bad? The short answer is no, but it can occasionally become problematic. Here’s what you should know.
What Is Earwax?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a natural substance made by glands inside your ear canal.
Earwax, a mixture of secretions and dead skin cells, is often misunderstood, yet it serves a useful purpose. Its primary job? Protecting your ears.
Earwax works as a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach your eardrum. It also helps in preserving moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to prevent dryness and discomfort. Without it, your ears would be more prone to infection and damage.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
Generally, normal maintenance is sufficient and no additional 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 washes away.
Most children and adults never have to worry about eliminating earwax. But for some, it can build up and become an issue.
The Unseen Dangers of Excessive Earwax Buildup
Even though earwax typically benefits our bodies, it can sometimes lead to issues, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too far up into the ear canal.
Here’s when earwax may develop into a problem:
- Utilizing cotton swabs: Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually push wax deeper into the canal, creating a blockage. 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 hinder the ear’s natural process of removing earwax, causing it to accumulate and potentially lead to obstructions.
- Excessive earwax production: A common issue for some people, resulting in a higher likelihood of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muffled sound
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Problems with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax might cause an infection in certain circumstances. When you experience these signs, it’s essential to seek assistance.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
Consulting a medical expert is advised if you are noticing excessive earwax accumulation. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their clinic. Some individuals try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good plan to consult with your healthcare provider before attempting these methods, especially 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 typically a good thing, but if it’s troubling you, don’t ignore it. We’re committed to supporting you in preserving ear health and preserving sharp hearing.
If you’re experiencing abnormal hearing changes or suspect an earwax obstruction, reach out to us to set up a consultation with one of our experts.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai
