It’s likely that earwax and its accumulation haven’t been subjects of extensive contemplation for you, except perhaps during ear hygiene routines. Still, it’s crucial to have an understanding of its purpose and how it develops.
So why does earwax accumulate?
Earwax, also scientifically called cerumen, is composed of a combination of sweat, skin particles, hair, debris, and ceruminous gland secretions. This earwax presents with a waxy consistency and can show shades of orange, yellow, gray, or brown.
While the production amount of earwax differs from person to person, adults typically produce less earwax than children. Moreover, adult earwax tends to be darker and denser compared to that of kids.
Earwax gets expelled or washed out after going by the outer ear canal and reaching the opening of the ear.
Why is earwax essential?
Earwax serves several crucial functions, such as:
- Before things like dust, dirt, or other external debris go further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a roadblock.
- Helping prevent ear infections.
- Protecting and moisturizing the skin lining the ear canal, thus preventing dryness and itchiness.
Obstructions caused by earwax
Usually, there’s no critical need to clean out earwax from your ears unless it becomes impacted, a prevalent issue linked to earwax. Sometimes, earwax is unable to easily get to the opening of the ear due to narrow or unusually shaped ear canals.
Poor ear hygiene methods, like using cotton swabs or bobby pins, can unintentionally force wax deeper into the ear canal.
Earwax blockages are frequently experienced by people who often use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How is hearing affected by too much earwax?
The occurrence of earwax blockages may yield slight discomfort and impact auditory health.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, might also happen.
Acoustic trauma might result in long-term hearing impairment, perforated eardrums, and long-term hearing loss if earwax obstructions go ignored.
Dealing with impacted earwax
It’s essential that you contact us as soon as you can if you think your ears are blocked by earwax. Depending on the severity of the blockage, you may be advised to utilize over-the-counter wax softening drops or a bulb syringe for gentle irrigation to alleviate the condition.
If you’re concerned about your earwax buildup, call us today to schedule an appointment.
