You most likely don’t give much thought to earwax buildup unless you’re in the process of cleaning it out. Still, it’s crucial to have an understanding of its purpose and how it forms.
What initiates the buildup of earwax?
Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a dense combination of debris, hair, skin particles, sweat, and ceruminous gland secretions. This earwax presents with a waxy consistency and can exhibit shades of orange, yellow, gray, or brown.
While the production amount of earwax varies from person to person, adults usually generate less earwax than kids. Kids also normally have softer earwax that’s lighter in color than adults.
Earwax gets discharged or washed out after going by the outer ear canal and reaching the opening of the ear.
Why do we need earwax?
Earwax serves several critical functions, such as:
- Stopping itchiness and dryness by lubricating and protecting the lining of the ear canal.
- Before things such as dust, dirt, or other external debris get further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a roadblock.
- Helping counter ear infections.
Obstructions caused by earwax
Impacted earwax is a prevalent 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 due to narrow or abnormally shaped ear canals.
Wax can be unintentionally pushed up into the ear canal by utilizing poor cleaning practices like using cotton swabs.
Earwax obstructions are often experienced by individuals who frequently use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How is hearing affected by too much earwax?
Auditory health may be hindered and you might feel mild discomfort.
In addition, considerable accumulations 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 obstructions go neglected.
Addressing impacted earwax
It’s essential that you get in touch with us as soon as possible if you think your ears are blocked by earwax. You may be advised to use over-the-counter products such as a bulb syringe or earwax softening drops to clean the wax out, depending on the extent of the blockage.
If you’re concerned about your earwax buildup, call us right away to schedule an appointment.