While earwax might not be a thrilling subject, it has a critical purpose in maintaining the health of your ears. As opposed to other bodily areas, such as your teeth, feet, or skin, which need routine maintenance to stay clean, earwax is generally self-sufficient and doesn’t require frequent 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 key things to be aware of.
What Is Earwax?
Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a natural compound 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 function? Protecting your ears.
Earwax acts like a barrier, capturing dust, dirt, and bacteria before they can get to your eardrum. It also helps keep your ear canal moisturized and healthy, preventing dryness and irritation. If it weren’t for this defensive mechanism, your ears would be more susceptible to harm and illness.
Do You Need to Clean Your Ears?
Typically, regular maintenance is sufficient and no additional cleaning is needed. Your ears are made to clean themselves out. Regular daily actions such as eating, speaking, bathing, and physical movement help in the removal of earwax by slowly directing it outward, where it can then be naturally shed or washed off.
For the majority of individuals, earwax removal is not a problem that normally calls for attention. However, over time, it can accumulate and turn into a problem for some individuals.
The Hidden Dangers of Excessive Earwax Buildup
Even though earwax generally benefits our bodies, it can occasionally result in issues, especially when it becomes impacted by being blocked or pushed too deeply into the ear canal.
Here’s when earwax may become an issue:
- Cotton swabs are commonly used by individuals to clean their ears; however, this action might unintentionally push earwax further into the ear canal, causing blockages. You can safely utilize these around the outer ear, but do not put them into the ear canal.
- Using earbuds, hearing aids, or earplugs can impede the ear’s natural process of removing earwax, causing it to collect and potentially result in blockages.
- Excessive earwax production: A common issue for some individuals, resulting in a higher risk of earwax accumulation and potential impaction.
Indications of Impacted Earwax
If earwax builds up too much, you may experience:
- Hearing loss or muted hearing
- An ear condition characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds, called tinnitus
- Earache or a feeling of fullness
- Issues with balance or feeling lightheaded
- Odor or discharge from the ear
In some cases, impacted earwax can even lead to an infection. If you detect these symptoms, it’s time to get some help.
Safe Earwax Elimination: Leave It to the Pros
Speaking with a medical expert is advised if you are noticing excessive earwax accumulation. Your regular physician, 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. It’s a good plan to consult with your healthcare provider before attempting these methods, especially if you have a history of ear problems, including ear infections or previous ear surgery, or if 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 set up 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