You most likely don’t give a lot of thought to earwax accumulation unless you’re in the process of cleaning it out. Still, it’s essential to have an understanding of its purpose and how it develops.
What causes the accumulation of earwax?
Earwax, also technically called cerumen, is composed 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 generate less earwax than children. Moreover, adult earwax tends to be darker and harder compared to that of kids.
Earwax gets expelled or washed out after passing the outer ear canal and reaching the opening of the ear.
Why is earwax essential?
Here are some important functions that earwax serves:
- Protecting and moisturizing the skin lining the ear canal, thus preventing dryness and itchiness.
- Fending off possible infections that may occur within the ear canal.
- Acting as a protective barrier against external irritants like dirt, dust, and other foreign particles before they infiltrate deeper into the ear.
Earwax obstructions
Impacted earwax is a common problem, but it’s typically the only time you need to be concerned about it. In some cases, earwax is unable to easily get to the opening of the ear as a result of narrow or unusually shaped ear canals.
Improper ear hygiene practices, like using cotton swabs or bobby pins, can unintentionally push wax deeper into the ear canal.
Earwax obstructions are frequently experienced by individuals who often use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How excessive earwax can affect hearing
Auditory health may be hindered and you may feel minor discomfort.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, may also happen.
Acoustic trauma may result in long-term hearing loss, perforated eardrums, and long-term hearing loss if earwax blockages go neglected.
Dealing with impacted earwax
It’s essential that you get in touch with 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 worried about your earwax buildup, call us today to schedule an appointment.