It’s likely that earwax and its accumulation haven’t been subjects of extensive consideration for you, except maybe during ear hygiene sessions. Nonetheless, understanding what causes earwax, how it develops, and its purpose is essential.
So why does earwax build-up?
Earwax, also scientifically called cerumen, is made up of a mix 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 person to person, adults usually generate less earwax than children. Furthermore, adult earwax tends to be darker and harder compared to that of kids.
Earwax goes by the outer ear canal naturally, ultimately reaching the ear opening, where it either self-expels or gets washed out when you bathe.
Why is earwax important?
Earwax serves several essential functions, such as:
- Acting as a protective barrier against outside irritants such as dirt, dust, and other foreign particles before they infiltrate deeper into the ear.
- Fending off potential infections that may develop within the ear canal.
- Stopping itchiness and dryness by lubricating and protecting the lining of the ear canal.
Blockages caused by earwax
Impacted earwax is a prevalent issue, but it’s typically the only time you need to worry about it. In some cases, earwax is unable to easily get to the opening of the ear due to narrow or unusually shaped ear canals.
Improper ear hygiene methods, like using cotton swabs or bobby pins, can unintentionally push wax deeper into the ear canal.
Earwax blockages are often experienced by individuals who often use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How is hearing affected by excessive earwax?
Auditory health might be hindered and you may feel minor discomfort.
Additionally, considerable buildup of earwax can induce tinnitus, a sensation of ringing in the ears.
Acoustic trauma might lead to long-term hearing impairment, perforated eardrums, and long-term hearing loss if earwax blockages go neglected.
How do you tackle impacted wax?
It’s essential that you contact us as soon as possible if you think your ears are blocked by earwax. You may be advised to use over-the-counter products such as a bulb syringe or earwax softening drops to clean the wax out, depending on the severity of the obstruction.
Call us right away if you need some help with an earwax blockage.