Earwax may not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an important role in keeping your ears healthy. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require routine cleaning endeavours, earwax usually takes care of 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 sometimes become troublesome. These are the fundamental things to be aware of.
What Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside your ear canal.
Earwax, a mixture of secretions and dead skin cells, is frequently misunderstood, yet it serves a useful purpose. Its main role is to safeguard your ears.
Earwax works as a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal hydrated and healthy, reducing 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?
Typically, normal upkeep is adequate and no extra cleaning is required. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Regular everyday actions like eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement aid in the removal 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 concern that typically requires attention. However, over time, it can build up and become a concern for certain people.
When Earwax Becomes a Problem
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: indications of a possible problem
- Using cotton swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually press wax deeper into the canal, creating an obstruction. You can safely utilize 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 removing earwax, causing it to collect and potentially lead to obstructions.
- Excessive earwax production: A common problem for some people, resulting in a higher risk of earwax accumulation and potential impaction.
Signs of Impacted Earwax
Excessive Earwax: Possible symptoms and consequences to be aware of:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muffled sound
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Pain or pressure in the ear
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Odor or discharge from the ear
In some cases, impacted earwax can even lead to an infection. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
It’s recommended to see a professional if you’re dealing with earwax accumulation. Your primary care doctor, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor can safely and comfortably remove it in the office. Some people explore home remedies including 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 wear hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is usually helpful, but if it is causing discomfort, address the problem. We’re dedicated to supporting you in maintaining 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
