Earwax might not be the most attractive topic, but it plays an important role in keeping your ears healthy. In contrast to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which need regular upkeep 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 detrimental. So, is earwax bad? The short answer is no, but it can sometimes become troublesome. Here’s what you should know.
What Is Earwax?
Cerumen, also called earwax, is a natural material generated by glands located in your ear canal.
Earwax, a mix of secretions and dead skin cells, is frequently misunderstood, yet it has a useful purpose. Its main job? Protecting 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, reducing dryness and inflammation. If it weren’t for this defensive system, your ears would be more susceptible to harm and illness.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most situations, no special cleaning is required. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Regular everyday actions like eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement help in the elimination of earwax by slowly 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 normally calls for attention. But for some, it can build up and become an issue.
When Earwax Becomes a Problem
Although earwax generally benefits our bodies, it can sometimes result in issues, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
Here’s when earwax might 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, causing an obstruction. 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 lead to blockages.
- Making too much wax: Some individuals normally generate more earwax than others, which can increase the chance of impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
Excessive Earwax: Potential symptoms and repercussions to be aware of:
- Hearing loss or muted hearing
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Discomfort or pressure in the ear
- Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax may lead to an infection in certain circumstances. When you experience these signs, it’s important to seek help.
Leave Earwax Removal to a Professional
It’s recommended to consult a professional if you’re coping with earwax buildup. 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 provider first– especially 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 a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t disregard it. 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 buildup or any changes in your hearing.
Sources:
How To Remove Ear Wax: A Step-By-Step Guide– Audien Hearing
Impacted Earwax|Cedars-Sinai
