While earwax may not be a thrilling subject, it has a crucial function in preserving the health of your ears. In contrast to other bodily areas, including your teeth, feet, or skin, which require regular maintenance to remain clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t demand 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 problematic. Here’s what you should know.
What Is Earwax?
Cerumen, also called earwax, is a natural material produced by glands located in your ear canal.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is often misunderstood, yet it serves a useful purpose. Its primary function? Protecting your ears.
Earwax works as a protective shield, capturing debris and microorganisms that could possibly 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 defensive system, your ears would be more susceptible to harm and illness.
Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most cases, no special cleaning is required. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Regular daily actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement help in the elimination of earwax by slowly directing it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or washed off.
For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a problem that typically calls for attention. But for saome people, it can build up and become an issue.
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 pushed too far into the ear canal).
Here’s when earwax may develop into an issue:
- Utilizing cotton swabs: Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually push wax deeper into the canal, creating a blockage. It’s fine 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 lead to blockages.
- Making too much wax: Some people normally produce more earwax than others, which can raise the possibility of impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muffled sound
- Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
- Pain or pressure in the ear
- Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
In some cases, impacted earwax can even cause an infection. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
Speaking with a medical expert is recommended if you are experiencing extreme earwax build-up. Your primary care provider, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physician can safely and comfortably eliminate it in the office. Some individuals try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be useful, but it’s smart to consult your provider first– particularly if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a background of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
Seek Guidance When Unsure
Earwax is typically beneficial, but if it is causing discomfort, address the problem. We’re committed to assisting you in preserving 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