Earwax might not be the most attractive topic, but it plays an essential role in keeping your ears healthy. As opposed to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which require routine maintenance to remain clean, earwax is typically self-sufficient and doesn’t demand constant attention. 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 problematic. These are the fundamental things to be aware of.
What Is Earwax?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a natural substance made by glands inside your ear canal.
It’s a combination of secretions and dead skin cells, and in spite of its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its main role is to protect your ears.
Earwax works as a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can get to your eardrum. It also helps in maintaining moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to prevent dryness and discomfort. If it weren’t for this protective system, your ears would be more susceptible to harm and illness.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most cases, no specific cleaning is required. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Regular everyday actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement aid in the elimination of earwax by gradually propelling it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or washed off.
Most kids and adults never have to worry about removing earwax. However, with time, it can accumulate and turn into a problem for some individuals.
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 worry: signs of a possible problem
- Using cotton swabs: Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this can actually press wax deeper into the canal, causing an obstruction. It’s fine to use these gently around the outer ear, but avoid inserting them into the ear canal.
- Wearing earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs: These devices can stop earwax from naturally working its way out of the ear, resulting in accumulation.
- Producing too much wax: Some people naturally generate more earwax than others, which can raise the chance of impaction.
Signs of Impacted Earwax
If earwax accumulates too much, you might experience:
- Experiencing difficulty hearing or a muted sound
- An ear condition distinguished by ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus
- Pain or pressure in the ear
- Problems with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Ear smell or drainage
Impacted earwax might cause an infection in certain circumstances. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to get some assistance.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
It’s recommended to consult a professional if you’re dealing with earwax buildup. Your regular physician, an audiologist, or an otolaryngologist can easily and painlessly take it out at their clinic. Some individuals try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be useful, but it’s smart to consult your doctor first– particularly if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a background of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is typically helpful, but if it is causing discomfort, address the issue. Our team is here to help you keep your ears healthy and your hearing clear.
Contact us to schedule an appointment if you’re concerned 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