You probably don’t give much thought to earwax accumulation unless you’re in the process of clearing it out. Nonetheless, understanding what causes earwax, how it forms, and its purpose is essential.
So why does earwax accumulate?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a thick blend of debris, hair, skin particles, sweat, 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 typically produce less earwax than children. Kids also usually 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 do we need earwax?
Earwax serves several essential functions, such as:
- Before things such as dust, dirt, or other external debris get further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a barrier.
- Preventing itchiness and dryness by moisturizing and protecting the lining of the ear canal.
- Helping counter ear infections.
Blockages caused by earwax
Usually, there’s no critical 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 as a result of narrow or abnormally shaped ear canals.
Wax can be accidentally pushed up into the ear canal by utilizing poor cleaning methods like using cotton swabs.
Earwax obstructions are often experienced by individuals who frequently use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How is hearing impacted by excessive earwax?
The presence of earwax blockages may yield slight discomfort and dampen auditory health.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, may also occur.
Neglected earwax obstructions may escalate into middle ear infections, perforated eardrums, or lasting hearing loss as a result of acoustic trauma.
How do you deal with impacted wax?
Should you suspect an earwax blockage, consulting us promptly is imperative. Depending on the severity of the obstruction, you may be advised to utilize over-the-counter wax softening drops or a bulb syringe for delicate irrigation to alleviate the condition.
Contact us right away if you need some assistance with an earwax obstruction.