You probably don’t give much thought to earwax accumulation unless you’re in the process of clearing it out. However, understanding what causes earwax, how it develops, and its purpose is essential.
So why does earwax accumulate?
Earwax, technically known as cerumen, is a thick combination of debris, hair, skin particles, sweat, and ceruminous gland secretions. Earwax will appear as a waxy substance that will normally be yellow, orange, brown, or even grey.
While the production amount of earwax varies from person to person, adults usually generate less earwax than kids. Children also typically have softer earwax that’s lighter in color than adults.
Earwax gets discharged or washed out after going by the outer ear canal and reaching the opening of the ear.
Why do we need earwax?
Here are some essential functions that earwax serves:
- Fending off possible infections that might develop within the ear canal.
- Protecting and lubricating the skin lining the ear canal, thus preventing dryness and itchiness.
- Acting as a protective barrier against external irritants including dirt, dust, and other foreign particles before they infiltrate deeper into the ear.
Earwax blockages
Impacted earwax is a prevalent problem, but it’s usually the only time you need to worry about it. Impacted earwax can be the result of narrow or abnormally shaped ear canals impeding the natural movement of earwax toward the ear’s opening.
Improper ear hygiene practices, like using cotton swabs or bobby pins, can inadvertently force wax deeper into the ear canal.
Earwax obstructions are often experienced by people who frequently use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How too much earwax can affect hearing
The occurrence of earwax blockages may yield mild discomfort and dampen auditory health.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, might also happen.
Neglected earwax blockages might intensify into middle ear infections, perforated eardrums, or enduring hearing loss due to acoustic trauma.
Addressing impacted earwax
Should you think you have an earwax blockage, consulting us quickly is imperative. You may be advised to utilize over-the-counter products like a bulb syringe or earwax softening drops to clean the wax out, depending on the extent of the obstruction.
If you’re worried about your earwax buildup, call us right away to schedule an appointment.