Chances are, earwax and its accumulation haven’t been subjects of extensive contemplation for you, except maybe during ear hygiene routines. Nonetheless, understanding what causes earwax, how it forms, and its purpose is essential.
So why does earwax accumulate?
Earwax, also scientifically called cerumen, is made up of a mix of sweat, skin particles, hair, debris, and ceruminous gland secretions. Earwax will appear as a waxy substance that will typically be yellow, orange, brown, or even grey.
While the production amount of earwax differs from individual to individual, adults typically produce less earwax than children. Kids also typically have softer earwax that’s lighter in color than adults.
Earwax goes by 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:
- Acting as a protective barrier against outside irritants like dirt, dust, and other foreign particles before they penetrate deeper into the ear.
- Fending off potential infections that might develop within the ear canal.
- Stopping itchiness and dryness by moisturizing and safeguarding the lining of the ear canal.
Earwax obstructions
Typically, there’s no crucial need to clean out earwax from your ears unless it becomes impacted, a common issue associated with earwax. In some cases, earwax is unable to easily get to the opening of the ear due to narrow or unusually shaped ear canals.
Wax can be accidentally crammed up into the ear canal by utilizing improper cleaning methods like using cotton swabs.
Earwax blockages are frequently experienced by individuals who often use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How excessive earwax can affect hearing
The presence of earwax blockages may yield mild discomfort and impact auditory health.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, may also happen.
Untreated earwax obstructions might intensify into middle ear infections, perforated eardrums, or lasting hearing impairment as a result of acoustic trauma.
How do you deal with impacted wax?
It’s crucial that you contact us as soon as possible if you think your ears may be blocked by earwax. Depending on the extent of the blockage, you might be advised to use over-the-counter wax softening drops or a bulb syringe for gentle irrigation to alleviate the condition.
Give us a call right away if you need some help with an earwax obstruction.