You probably don’t give much thought to earwax accumulation unless you’re in the process of cleaning it out. Still, it’s essential to have an understanding of its purpose and how it forms.
What initiates the accumulation of earwax?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a dense blend 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 differs from person to person, adults usually produce less earwax than children. Children also typically have softer earwax that’s lighter in color than adults.
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:
- Before things like dust, dirt, or other outside debris get further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a roadblock.
- Safeguarding and moisturizing the skin lining the ear canal, thus preventing dryness and itchiness.
- Fending off possible infections that may develop within the ear canal.
Earwax blockages
Usually, there’s no critical need to clean out earwax from your ears unless it becomes impacted, a prevalent problem associated with earwax. Impacted earwax can be the result of narrow or unusually shaped ear canals hindering the normal movement of earwax toward the ear’s periphery.
Wax can be accidentally crammed up into the ear canal by utilizing poor cleaning practices like using cotton swabs.
Earwax obstructions are often experienced by individuals who frequently use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How too much earwax can affect hearing
Auditory health might be impeded and you might feel mild discomfort.
Also, substantial accumulations of earwax can trigger 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.
Addressing impacted earwax
If you suspect an earwax blockage, consulting us quickly is essential. You might be advised to utilize over-the-counter products such as a bulb syringe or earwax softening drops to clear the wax out, depending on the extent of the blockage.
If you’re worried about your earwax buildup, call us today to schedule an appointment.