You most likely don’t give a lot of thought to earwax accumulation unless you’re in the process of cleaning it out. Nonetheless, comprehending what causes earwax, how it forms, and its purpose is crucial.
So why does earwax build-up?
Earwax, also scientifically called cerumen, is made up of a combination of sweat, skin particles, hair, debris, and ceruminous gland secretions. Earwax will appear as a waxy substance that will usually 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. Furthermore, adult earwax is usually darker and denser compared to that of kids.
Earwax goes by the outer ear canal leisurely, ultimately reaching the ear opening, where it either self-expels or gets washed out during bathing.
Why do we need earwax?
Here are a few essential functions that earwax serves:
- Helping counter ear infections.
- Before things like dust, dirt, or other external debris get further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a barrier.
- Preventing itchiness and dryness by lubricating and protecting the lining of the ear canal.
Blockages caused by earwax
Usually, there’s no crucial need to clean out earwax from your ears unless it becomes impacted, a common problem associated with earwax. Sometimes, earwax is unable to easily get to the opening of the ear due to narrow or abnormally shaped ear canals.
Improper ear hygiene methods, such as using cotton swabs or bobby pins, can inadvertently force wax deeper into the ear canal.
Individuals grappling with hearing loss who make use of earplugs or hearing aids are also susceptible to experiencing ear canal obstructions.
How is hearing affected by too much earwax?
The occurrence of earwax blockages might yield mild discomfort and impact auditory health.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, may also happen.
Neglected earwax blockages might intensify into middle ear infections, perforated eardrums, or enduring hearing impairment as a result of acoustic trauma.
How do you deal with impacted wax?
If you think you have an earwax blockage, consulting us quickly is essential. Depending on the extent of the blockage, you may be advised to utilize over-the-counter wax softening drops or a bulb syringe for gentle irrigation to relieve the condition.
Call us right away if you need some help with an earwax obstruction.