You probably don’t give much thought to earwax accumulation unless you’re in the process of cleaning it out. Nonetheless, understanding what causes earwax, how it develops, and its purpose is crucial.
So why does earwax accumulate?
Earwax, also scientifically called cerumen, is made up 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 usually generate less earwax than kids. Children also usually have softer earwax that’s lighter in color than adults.
Earwax gets discharged or washed out after passing the outer ear canal and reaching the opening of the ear.
Why do we need earwax?
Here are some crucial functions that earwax serves:
- Acting as a protective barricade against outside irritants like dirt, dust, and other foreign particles before they infiltrate deeper into the ear.
- Helping counter ear infections.
- Stopping itchiness and dryness by moisturizing and safeguarding the lining of the ear canal.
Obstructions caused by earwax
Usually, there’s no critical need to remove earwax from your ears unless it becomes impacted, a prevalent problem linked to earwax. Sometimes, earwax is unable to easily get to the opening of the ear due to narrow or abnormally shaped ear canals.
Wax can be unintentionally pushed up into the ear canal by utilizing improper cleaning practices like using cotton swabs.
People wrestling with hearing loss who use earplugs or hearing aids are also susceptible to experiencing ear canal obstructions.
How excessive earwax can affect hearing
Auditory health might be impeded and you might feel mild discomfort.
Also, substantial buildup 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 obstructions go ignored.
Addressing impacted earwax
It’s essential that you contact us as soon as possible if you think your ears may be blocked by earwax. Depending on the extent of the obstruction, you might be advised to use over-the-counter wax softening drops or a bulb syringe for gentle irrigation to relieve the condition.
If you’re concerned about your earwax buildup, call us today to schedule an appointment.
