It’s likely that earwax and its accumulation haven’t been subjects of extensive contemplation for you, except maybe during ear hygiene sessions. Nonetheless, understanding what causes earwax, how it develops, and its purpose is essential.
What initiates the accumulation of earwax?
Earwax, also technically called cerumen, is made up of a combination of sweat, skin particles, hair, debris, and ceruminous gland secretions. This earwax presents with a waxy consistency and can exhibit shades of orange, yellow, gray, or brown.
While the production amount of earwax varies from individual to individual, adults typically produce less earwax than kids. Kids also normally have softer earwax that’s lighter in color than adults.
Earwax passes the outer ear canal naturally, ultimately reaching the ear opening, where it either self-expels or gets washed away during bathing.
Why do we need earwax?
Earwax serves several essential functions, such as:
- Preventing itchiness and dryness by lubricating and safeguarding the lining of the ear canal.
- Before things such as dust, dirt, or other external debris go further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a roadblock.
- Helping counter ear infections.
Earwax blockages
Usually, there’s no imperative need to clean out earwax from your ears unless it becomes impacted, a common issue linked to earwax. In some cases, earwax is unable to easily get to the opening of the ear as a result of narrow or unusually shaped ear canals.
Wax can be unintentionally crammed up into the ear canal by utilizing improper cleaning methods like using cotton swabs.
Earwax obstructions are often experienced by individuals who frequently use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How too much earwax can affect hearing
The occurrence of earwax blockages might yield mild discomfort and impact auditory health.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, could also occur.
Acoustic trauma may lead to long-term hearing impairment, perforated eardrums, and long-term hearing loss if earwax blockages go ignored.
How do you deal with impacted wax?
If you think you have an earwax blockage, consulting us immediately is essential. You might be advised to utilize over-the-counter products like a bulb syringe or earwax softening drops to clear the wax out, depending on the severity of the blockage.
If you’re concerned about your earwax buildup, call us right away to schedule an appointment.
