While earwax might not be a thrilling subject, it serves a crucial purpose in maintaining the health of your ears. In contrast to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which require regular maintenance to remain clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t demand constant attention. Overly frequent efforts to eliminate it can actually be detrimental. So, is earwax bad? The short answer is no, but it can occasionally become troublesome. These are the fundamental things to be mindful of.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside your ear canal.
It’s a combination of secretions and dead skin cells, and despite its reputation, earwax is actually beneficial. Its primary role is to safeguard your ears.
Earwax works as a defensive shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the fragile surface of your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal hydrated and healthy, preventing dryness and irritation. If it weren’t for this protective system, your ears would be more vulnerable to harm and illness.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most cases, no special cleaning is needed. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to get rid of dirt on their own. Regular everyday actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement help in the elimination of earwax by gradually directing it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or rinsed off.
For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a problem that typically calls for attention. But for some, it can accumulate and become a problem.
When Earwax Becomes a Problem
Even though earwax typically helps our bodies, it can sometimes lead to problems, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too far up into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a concern: indications of a possible issue
- Using cotton swabs: Many people 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 put 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 blockages.
- Producing too much wax: Some people normally generate more earwax than others, which can raise the chance of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Look for
If earwax accumulates too much, you may experience:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muted sound
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Ear smell or drainage
In some situations, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
Consulting a medical expert is advised if you are experiencing excessive earwax accumulation. Your primary care doctor, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor can safely and comfortably eliminate 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 strategies, particularly if you have a history of ear problems, including ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you use 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 assisting you in maintaining ear health and maintaining sharp hearing.
Contact us to schedule 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
