You probably don’t give a lot of 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.
So why does earwax build-up?
Earwax, also technically called cerumen, is composed of a combination of sweat, skin particles, hair, debris, and ceruminous gland secretions. Earwax will show up as a waxy substance that will normally be yellow, orange, brown, or even grey.
In most situations, kids tend to produce more earwax than adults. Furthermore, adult earwax is usually darker and harder 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 away during bathing.
Why is earwax essential?
Here are some important functions that earwax serves:
- Acting as a protective barricade against external irritants like dirt, dust, and other foreign particles before they infiltrate deeper into the ear.
- Protecting and lubricating the skin lining the ear canal, thus preventing dryness and itchiness.
- Helping counter ear infections.
Blockages caused by earwax
Usually, there’s no critical need to clean out earwax from your ears unless it becomes impacted, a prevalent issue linked to earwax. Impacted earwax can be the result of narrow or unusually shaped ear canals impeding the natural movement of earwax toward the ear’s periphery.
Wax can be accidentally crammed up into the ear canal by utilizing poor cleaning methods like using cotton swabs.
Individuals grappling with hearing loss who make use of earplugs or hearing aids are also susceptible to experiencing ear canal blockages.
How excessive earwax can affect hearing
The occurrence of earwax blockages may yield mild discomfort and dampen auditory health.
Additionally, considerable accumulations of earwax can trigger tinnitus, a sensation of ringing in the ears.
Acoustic trauma might result in long-term hearing impairment, perforated eardrums, and long-term hearing loss if earwax blockages go ignored.
Addressing impacted earwax
If you suspect an earwax blockage, consulting us promptly is essential. Depending on the extent of the blockage, you may be advised to make use of over-the-counter wax softening drops or a bulb syringe for delicate irrigation to relieve the condition.
Give us a call right away if you need some help with an earwax blockage.
