While earwax may not be an exciting subject, it serves a crucial function in maintaining the health of your ears. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate routine cleaning endeavours, earwax usually manages 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. Here’s what you should know.
What Is Earwax?
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 serves as a protective shield, catching debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, reducing dryness and inflammation. If it weren’t for this defensive system, your ears would be more susceptible to harm and illness.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no special cleaning is needed. 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 washes away.
For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a concern that normally calls for attention. However, over time, it can accumulate and become a problem for some individuals.
The Unseen Dangers of Excessive Earwax Buildup
Even though earwax typically helps our bodies, it can sometimes result in issues, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too far up into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a worry: signs of a potential issue
- Cotton swabs are often utilized by individuals to clean their ears; however, this action may inadvertently push earwax further down the ear canal, leading to obstructions. It’s okay 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 collect and potentially result in blockages.
- Producing too much wax: Some individuals naturally generate more earwax than others, which can increase the chance of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Watch For
If earwax builds up too much, you might experience:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muffled sound
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax may lead to an infection in certain instances. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some assistance.
Safe Earwax Removal: Leave It to the Pros
It’s best to consult a professional if you’re dealing with earwax accumulation. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their office. Some people try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good plan to talk with your healthcare provider before attempting these strategies, particularly if you have a history of ear issues, including ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is usually beneficial, 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 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