It’s likely that earwax and its buildup haven’t been subjects of significant consideration for you, except perhaps during ear hygiene routines. Nonetheless, comprehending what causes earwax, how it forms, and its purpose is essential.
What initiates the buildup of earwax?
Earwax, also technically called cerumen, is composed of a mix of sweat, skin particles, hair, debris, and ceruminous gland secretions. Earwax will show up as a waxy substance that will usually be yellow, orange, brown, or even grey.
In most instances, children tend to produce more earwax than adults. Kids also typically have softer earwax that’s lighter in color than adults.
Earwax goes by the outer ear canal naturally, eventually 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 like dust, dirt, or other outside debris go further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a barrier.
- Stopping itchiness and dryness by lubricating and safeguarding the lining of the ear canal.
- Fending off possible infections that might occur within the ear canal.
Earwax obstructions
Impacted earwax is a common problem, but it’s usually the only time you need to worry about it. In some cases, earwax is unable to easily get to the opening of the ear due to narrow or abnormally shaped ear canals.
Poor ear hygiene methods, like using cotton swabs or bobby pins, can inadvertently force wax deeper into the ear canal.
Individuals grappling with hearing loss who utilize earplugs or hearing aids are also predisposed to experiencing ear canal obstructions.
How too much earwax can affect hearing
The occurrence of earwax blockages might yield slight discomfort and impact auditory health.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, may also happen.
Acoustic trauma might lead to long-term hearing loss, perforated eardrums, and long-term hearing loss if earwax blockages go neglected.
Dealing with impacted earwax
It’s crucial that you contact us as soon as you can if you think your ears are blocked by earwax. You might be advised to use over-the-counter products like a bulb syringe or earwax softening drops to clear the wax out, depending on the severity of the obstruction.
Call us right away if you need some help with an earwax blockage.