It’s likely that earwax and its buildup haven’t been subjects of significant consideration for you, except maybe during ear hygiene routines. Nonetheless, comprehending what causes earwax, how it forms, and its purpose is crucial.
What triggers the accumulation of earwax?
Earwax, also technically called cerumen, is composed of a combination of sweat, skin particles, hair, debris, and ceruminous gland secretions. This earwax presents with a waxy texture and can exhibit shades of orange, yellow, gray, or brown.
While the production amount of earwax varies from individual to individual, adults typically generate less earwax than children. Furthermore, adult earwax tends to be darker and denser compared to that of kids.
Earwax goes by the outer ear canal leisurely, eventually reaching the ear opening, where it either self-expels or gets washed out when you bathe.
Why do we need earwax?
Here are a few important functions that earwax serves:
- Helping counter ear infections.
- Safeguarding and lubricating the skin lining the ear canal, thus preventing dryness and itchiness.
- Before things such as dust, dirt, or other outside debris get further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a barrier.
Earwax obstructions
Impacted earwax is a prevalent issue, but it’s typically the only time you need to be concerned about it. 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, like using cotton swabs or bobby pins, can unintentionally jam wax deeper into the ear canal.
Earwax blockages are often experienced by people who often use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How excessive earwax can affect hearing
The occurrence of earwax blockages might yield slight discomfort and impact auditory health.
In addition, significant buildup of earwax can induce 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.
How do you deal with impacted wax?
It’s crucial that you get in touch with us as soon as you can if you think your ears are blocked by earwax. 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 severity of the obstruction.
If you’re concerned about your earwax buildup, call us right away to schedule an appointment.