While earwax may not be a thrilling subject, it serves a critical purpose in maintaining the health of your ears. Compared to your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require regular cleaning efforts, earwax normally 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 Exactly Is Cerumen?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural compound made by glands inside of your ear canal.
Earwax, a mixture of secretions and dead skin cells, is frequently misunderstood, yet it has a useful purpose. Its main role is to protect your ears.
Earwax acts like a barrier, trapping dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can get to your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, preventing dryness and inflammation. If it weren’t for this defensive system, your ears would be more vulnerable to harm and illness.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
Typically, regular maintenance is adequate and no additional cleaning is required. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to get rid of dirt on their own. Regular daily actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement help in the removal of earwax by gradually propelling it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or rinsed off.
For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a problem that typically calls for attention. However, over time, it can build up and become a problem for certain individuals.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Accumulation
Even though earwax generally helps our bodies, it can sometimes result in issues, especially when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
Here’s when earwax might become a problem:
- Cotton swabs are commonly utilized by people to clean their ears; however, this action might inadvertently push earwax further down the ear canal, causing blockages. You can safely use these around the outer ear, but do not put them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs can hinder the ear’s natural process of clearing out earwax, causing it to collect and potentially result in blockages.
- Producing too much wax: Some people normally generate more earwax than others, which can increase the possibility of impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
Excessive Earwax: Possible symptoms and repercussions to be aware of:
- Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muffled sound
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- 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 assistance.
Leave Earwax Elimination to a Professional
Consulting a medical professional is advised if you are noticing extreme earwax accumulation. Your primary care doctor, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor can safely and comfortably eliminate it in the office. Some people experiment with home remedies including non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. It’s a good plan to consult with your healthcare provider before attempting these methods, particularly if you have a history of ear issues, such as ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if you wear hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is typically a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t ignore 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 blockage, 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