While earwax might not be an exciting subject, it serves a crucial purpose in maintaining the health of your ears. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that require regular cleaning efforts, earwax normally takes care of itself. Overly frequent attempts to eliminate it can actually be detrimental. So, is earwax bad? The short answer is no, but it can sometimes become troublesome. These are the key things to be aware of.
What Is Earwax?
Cerumen, also called earwax, is a natural substance produced by glands located in your ear canal.
It’s a combination of secretions and dead skin cells, and despite its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its primary function? Protecting your ears.
Earwax works as a barrier, trapping dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach your eardrum. It also helps in preserving moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to prevent dryness and soreness. If it weren’t for this protective mechanism, your ears would be more vulnerable to harm and illness.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no special cleaning is required. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to remove dirt on their own. Everyday activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help drive old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
For the majority of individuals, earwax removal is not a concern that normally requires attention. However, over time, it can build up and become a problem for certain individuals.
The Unseen Dangers of Excessive Earwax Accumulation
Although earwax generally benefits 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.
Here’s when earwax might become a problem:
- Cotton swabs are often used by people to clean their ears; however, this action might inadvertently push earwax further down the ear canal, leading to blockages. You can safely use 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 clearing out earwax, causing it to accumulate and potentially lead to blockages.
- Excessive earwax creation: A prevalent issue for some individuals, resulting in a higher likelihood of earwax buildup and potential impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Look for
If earwax builds up too much, you might experience:
- Experiencing trouble hearing or a muted sound
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Problems with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax might lead to an infection in certain instances. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
Speaking with a medical professional is recommended if you are noticing excessive earwax build-up. Your regular doctor, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their office. Some individuals try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be effective, but it’s smart to check with your doctor first– especially if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a background of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is usually helpful, but if it is causing discomfort, address the issue. We’re committed to supporting you in preserving ear health and preserving sharp hearing.
Contact us to schedule an appointment if you’re worried about earwax accumulation or any changes in your hearing.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai