You most likely don’t give a lot of thought to earwax accumulation unless you’re in the process of cleaning it out. However, understanding what causes earwax, how it develops, and its purpose is essential.
What causes the accumulation of earwax?
Earwax, technically identified as cerumen, is a dense blend of debris, hair, skin particles, sweat, and ceruminous gland secretions. Earwax will show up as a waxy substance that will typically be yellow, orange, brown, or even grey.
While the production amount of earwax varies from individual to individual, adults typically generate less earwax than children. Furthermore, adult earwax is usually darker and harder compared to that of kids.
Earwax gets expelled or washed out after going by the outer ear canal and reaching the opening of the ear.
Why is earwax important?
Earwax serves several critical functions, such as:
- Before things such as dust, dirt, or other external debris go further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a barrier.
- Fending off potential infections that may arise within the ear canal.
- Safeguarding and moisturizing the skin lining the ear canal, thereby preventing dryness and itchiness.
Earwax blockages
Impacted earwax is a prevalent issue, but it’s usually the only time you need to worry about it. In some cases, earwax is unable to easily get to the opening of the ear as a result of narrow or abnormally shaped ear canals.
Poor ear hygiene practices, such as using cotton swabs or bobby pins, can unintentionally force wax deeper into the ear canal.
Earwax obstructions are often experienced by individuals who often use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How excessive earwax can impact hearing
The presence of earwax blockages may yield mild discomfort and dampen auditory health.
Additionally, substantial buildup of earwax can trigger tinnitus, a sensation of ringing in the ears.
Acoustic trauma may lead to long-term hearing impairment, perforated eardrums, and long-term hearing loss if earwax obstructions go ignored.
How do you deal with impacted wax?
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 may be advised to make use of over-the-counter wax softening drops or a bulb syringe for gentle irrigation to relieve the condition.
Call us right away if you need some help with an earwax obstruction.