Chances are, earwax and its buildup haven’t been subjects of extensive consideration for you, except maybe during ear hygiene routines. Nonetheless, comprehending what causes earwax, how it develops, and its purpose is essential.
So why does earwax build-up?
Earwax, also technically called cerumen, is composed 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 person to person, adults typically produce less earwax than kids. Kids also usually have softer earwax that’s lighter in color than adults.
Earwax gets expelled or washed out after going by the outer ear canal and reaching the opening of the ear.
Why is earwax essential?
Earwax serves several essential functions, such as:
- Before things like dust, dirt, or other outside debris go further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a roadblock.
- Stopping itchiness and dryness by moisturizing and safeguarding the lining of the ear canal.
- Helping counter ear infections.
Earwax obstructions
Usually, there’s no imperative need to clean out earwax from your ears unless it becomes impacted, a common problem linked to earwax. Impacted earwax can be the result of narrow or unusually shaped ear canals impeding the natural movement of earwax toward the ear’s opening.
Wax can be unintentionally crammed up into the ear canal by utilizing poor cleaning methods like using cotton swabs.
People wrestling with hearing loss who utilize earplugs or hearing aids are also predisposed to experiencing ear canal blockages.
How is hearing impacted by excessive earwax?
The occurrence of earwax blockages might yield slight discomfort and dampen auditory health.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, might also occur.
Acoustic trauma may lead to long-term hearing impairment, perforated eardrums, and long-term hearing loss if earwax blockages go neglected.
Addressing impacted earwax
If you suspect an earwax blockage, consulting us promptly is imperative. You might be advised to use over-the-counter products like a bulb syringe or earwax softening drops to clear the wax out, depending on the extent of the obstruction.
Contact us right away if you need some help with an earwax blockage.