You most likely don’t give a lot of thought to earwax accumulation unless you’re in the process of clearing it out. However, comprehending what causes earwax, how it forms, and its purpose is essential.
So why does earwax accumulate?
Earwax, scientifically called cerumen, is a dense combination of debris, hair, skin particles, sweat, and ceruminous gland secretions. Earwax will show up as a waxy substance that will usually be yellow, orange, brown, or even grey.
While the production amount of earwax varies from person to person, adults typically produce less earwax than children. Kids also typically 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 out during bathing.
Why is earwax crucial?
Here are a few essential functions that earwax serves:
- Acting as a protective barrier against external irritants such as dirt, dust, and other foreign particles before they penetrate deeper into the ear.
- Stopping itchiness and dryness by moisturizing and protecting the lining of the ear canal.
- Helping counter ear infections.
Earwax obstructions
Typically, there’s no crucial need to remove earwax from your ears unless it becomes impacted, a common issue linked to earwax. Impacted earwax can stem from narrow or abnormally shaped ear canals impeding the natural movement of earwax toward the ear’s periphery.
Wax can be accidentally crammed up into the ear canal by utilizing improper cleaning methods like using cotton swabs.
Individuals grappling with hearing loss who make use of earplugs or hearing aids are also predisposed to experiencing ear canal blockages.
How too much earwax can affect hearing
The presence of earwax blockages may yield mild discomfort and impact auditory health.
Also, substantial accumulations of earwax can induce tinnitus, a feeling of ringing in the ears.
Acoustic trauma might lead to long-term hearing loss, perforated eardrums, and long-term hearing loss if earwax blockages go neglected.
How do you deal with impacted wax?
If you think you have an earwax blockage, consulting us quickly is imperative. You may be advised to use over-the-counter products like a bulb syringe or earwax softening drops to clean the wax out, depending on the severity of the blockage.
If you’re worried about your earwax buildup, call us today to schedule an appointment.
