Earwax might not be the most glamorous topic, but it plays an essential role in keeping your ears healthy. As opposed to other bodily areas, including your teeth, feet, or skin, which need regular maintenance to remain clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t require frequent attention. Overly frequent efforts to eliminate it can actually be counterproductive. 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 produced by glands located in your ear canal.
It’s a combination of secretions and dead skin cells, and in spite of its reputation, earwax is actually helpful. Its primary job? Safeguarding your ears.
Earwax serves as a protective shield, catching debris and microorganisms that could possibly harm the delicate surface of your eardrum. It also helps in preserving moisture and promoting health in your ear canal to avoid dryness and discomfort. Without it, your ears would be more susceptible to infection and damage.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
In most cases, no specific cleaning is needed. Your ears are designed to clean themselves out. Daily activities– include chewing, talking, showering, and moving around– help push old wax to the surface, where it naturally flakes or washes away.
Most kids and adults never have to worry about eliminating earwax. However, over time, it can build up and become a problem for some people.
When Earwax Becomes an issue
Although earwax typically helps our bodies, it can sometimes lead to problems, particularly when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too far up into the ear canal.
When earwax becomes a concern: signs of a potential issue
- Cotton swabs are often utilized by individuals to clean their ears; however, this action may inadvertently push earwax further into the ear canal, causing obstructions. You can safely use these around the outer ear, but do not insert 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 normally generate more earwax than others, which can increase the possibility of impaction.
Symptoms of Earwax Accumulation: What to Look for
If earwax builds up too much, you might experience:
- Hearing loss or muffled hearing
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, known as 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. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Safe Earwax Removal: Leave It to the Pros
It’s best to consult a professional if you’re dealing with earwax accumulation. Your primary care provider, hearing specialist, or ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor can safely and comfortably remove it in the office. Some people try home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops or ear irrigation kits. These can sometimes be useful, but it’s smart to check with your doctor first– particularly if you’ve had ear surgery, you have a history of ear infections, or you use hearing aids.
When in Doubt, Ask
Earwax is typically a good thing, but if it’s bothering you, don’t ignore it. Our team is here to help you keep your ears healthy and your hearing clear.
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