Earwax may not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an important role in keeping your ears healthy. Unlike your teeth, feet, or other body parts that necessitate regular cleaning endeavors, earwax usually manages itself. In fact, trying to remove it too often can do more harm than good. Earwax is not intrinsically harmful, but it may cause issues at times. These are the fundamental things to be aware of.

What Exactly Is Cerumen?

Cerumen, also referred to as earwax, is a natural substance produced by glands located in your ear canal.
Earwax, a mixture of secretions and dead skin cells, is frequently misunderstood, yet it serves a useful purpose. Its main function? Safeguarding your ears.

Earwax serves as a protective shield, catching debris and microorganisms that could potentially harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal hydrated and healthy, reducing dryness and irritation. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.

Is There a Need to Clean Your Ears?

Generally, normal upkeep is adequate and no extra cleaning is needed. Your ears are made to clean themselves out. Daily 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 people, earwax removal is not a problem that typically requires attention. However, over time, it can accumulate and become a problem for certain individuals.

When Earwax Becomes a Problem

While earwax is usually 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).

Here’s when earwax may develop into a problem:

• Utilizing cotton swabs: Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually press wax deeper into the canal, causing an obstruction. It’s okay to use these carefully around the outer ear, but avoid inserting 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 lead to obstructions.
• Excessive earwax production: A common issue for some individuals, leading to a higher risk of earwax buildup and potential impaction.

Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Look for

If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:

• Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muted sound
• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
• Pain or pressure in the ear
• Dizziness or balance issues
• Ear smell or drainage

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

Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros

Speaking with a medical professional is recommended if you are experiencing extreme earwax accumulation. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their office. Some individuals experiment with home remedies including non-prescription ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be useful, but it’s smart to check with your doctor first– especially if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a history of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.

When in Doubt, Ask

Earwax is usually beneficial, but if it is causing discomfort, address the issue. 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 arrange an ear cleaning consultation with one of our specialists.

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