Earwax may not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an essential role in keeping your ears healthy. In contrast to other bodily areas, including your teeth, feet, or skin, which need regular upkeep to remain clean, earwax is typically self-sufficient and doesn’t require frequent 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 sometimes become troublesome. Here’s what you should know.
What Is Earwax?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside of your ear canal.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is frequently misunderstood, yet it serves a useful purpose. Its primary role is to protect your ears.
Earwax acts like a barrier, trapping dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, reducing dryness and inflammation. Without it, your ears would be more prone to infection and damage.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
Typically, normal maintenance is adequate and no extra cleaning is required. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to remove dirt on their own. Routine daily actions like eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement aid in the elimination of earwax by slowly directing it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or washed off.
For the majority of individuals, earwax removal is not a problem that normally calls for attention. However, with time, it can accumulate and become a problem for certain individuals.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Accumulation
While earwax is usually a friend to our bodies, there are times it can cause trouble, particularly if it becomes impacted (blocked or crammed too far into the ear canal).
When earwax becomes a concern: indications of a potential problem
- Utilizing cotton swabs: Many individuals 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 put them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs: These devices can prevent earwax from naturally working its way out of the ear, resulting in buildup.
- Making too much wax: Some people naturally produce more earwax than others, which can raise the chance of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Look for
Excessive Earwax: Possible symptoms and consequences to be aware of:
- Hearing loss or muted hearing
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Problems with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Odor or excretion from the ear
Impacted earwax might cause an infection in certain circumstances. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some assistance.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
It’s recommended to consult a professional if you’re dealing with earwax buildup. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their clinic. Some people explore home remedies such as non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be useful, but it’s smart to check with your provider first– particularly if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a background of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is typically 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 set up a consultation with one of our specialists.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai