The Rundown on Earwax: What it Does and When it Needs to Go

Woman-Pressing-Ear

While earwax may not be a thrilling subject, it has a crucial function in maintaining the health of your ears. As opposed to other bodily areas, including your teeth, feet, or skin, which need routine maintenance to remain clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t demand frequent attention. Overly frequent attempts to get rid of it can actually be counterproductive. Earwax is not inherently harmful, but it may cause problems at times. These are the key things to be aware of.

What Exactly Is Cerumen?

Cerumen, also referred to as earwax, is a natural material produced by glands located in your ear canal.
It’s a blend of secretions and dead skin cells, and despite its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its primary role is to protect your ears.

Earwax works as a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can reach your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, reducing dryness and irritation. If it weren’t for this protective system, your ears would be more vulnerable to harm and illness.

Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?

In most cases, no special cleaning is required. Your ears have a BUILT IN ability to remove dirt on their own. Regular daily actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement aid in the removal of earwax by gradually propelling it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or washed off.

For the majority of people, earwax removal is not a concern that typically calls for attention. But for saome people, it can accumulate and become a problem.

When Earwax Becomes a Problem

While earwax is typically a friend to our bodies, there are times it can become problematic, especially if it becomes impacted (blocked or pushed too far into the ear canal).

When earwax becomes a concern: signs of a possible issue

Using cotton swabs: Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually push wax deeper into the canal, creating a blockage. 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 accumulate and potentially lead to obstructions.
Making too much wax: Some individuals naturally produce more earwax than others, which can raise the chance of impaction.

Symptoms of Earwax Buildup: What to Watch For

If earwax builds up too much, you might experience:

Hearing loss or muffled hearing
Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
Pain or pressure in the ear
Vertigo or balance issues
Odor or excretion from the ear

Impacted earwax might cause an infection in certain instances. When you experience these signs, it’s important to seek help.

Safe Earwax Removal: Leave It to the Pros

Consulting a medical professional is advised if you are experiencing extreme earwax accumulation. Your primary care provider, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) physician can safely and comfortably remove it in the office. Some individuals explore home remedies including non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be effective, but it’s smart to check with your provider first– particularly if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a history 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 maintaining sharp hearing.

Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai