Earwax might not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an essential role in keeping your ears healthy. As opposed to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which need routine upkeep to remain clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t require constant attention. 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 fundamental things to be aware of.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Cerumen, also referred to as earwax, is a natural substance generated 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 helpful. Its primary job? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax works as a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can get to your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal hydrated and healthy, reducing dryness and irritation. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no special cleaning is needed. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Routine daily actions like eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement help in the removal of earwax by slowly directing it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or rinsed off.
Most kids and adults never need to b e concerned about removing earwax. But for some, it can accumulate and become a problem.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Accumulation
While earwax is usually 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 worry: signs of a potential problem
- Utilizing cotton swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually push wax deeper into the canal, creating a blockage. It’s okay to use these carefully around the outer ear, but avoid inserting 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 collect and potentially result in obstructions.
- Producing too much wax: Some people normally generate more earwax than others, which can raise the possibility of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Watch For
If earwax accumulates too much, you might experience:
- Hearing loss or muted hearing
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Odor or excretion from the ear
Impacted earwax might lead to an infection in certain circumstances. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some assistance.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
Speaking with a medical professional is advised if you are experiencing extreme earwax accumulation. Your regular doctor, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their clinic. Some individuals experiment with home remedies such as non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good plan to consult with your healthcare provider before trying these strategies, especially if you have a history of ear issues, including ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you use hearing aids.
Seek Guidance When Unsure
Earwax is usually a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t disregard it. Our team is here to help you keep your ears healthy and your hearing clear.
If you’re experiencing unusual hearing changes or suspect an earwax obstruction, 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