Chances are, earwax and its accumulation haven’t been subjects of extensive consideration for you, except maybe during ear hygiene sessions. Still, it’s crucial to have an understanding of its purpose and how it develops.
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. Earwax will appear as a waxy substance that will typically be yellow, orange, brown, or even grey.
In most circumstances, children tend to generate more earwax than adults. Moreover, adult earwax tends to be darker and harder compared to that of children.
Earwax gets expelled or washed out after passing the outer ear canal and reaching the opening of the ear.
Why is earwax important?
Here are a few essential functions that earwax serves:
- Fending off potential infections that may develop within the ear canal.
- Preventing itchiness and dryness by moisturizing and safeguarding the lining of the ear canal.
- Acting as a protective barricade against external irritants such as dirt, dust, and other foreign particles before they penetrate deeper into the ear.
Blockages caused by earwax
Impacted earwax is a prevalent problem, 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 due to narrow or unusually shaped ear canals.
Improper ear hygiene methods, such as using cotton swabs or bobby pins, can unintentionally push wax deeper into the ear canal.
Individuals wrestling with hearing loss who use earplugs or hearing aids are also susceptible to experiencing ear canal blockages.
How excessive earwax can impact hearing
Auditory health may be hindered and you may feel mild discomfort.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, might also occur.
Neglected earwax obstructions may intensify into middle ear infections, perforated eardrums, or enduring hearing loss as a result of acoustic trauma.
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 blockage, you might be advised to use over-the-counter wax softening drops or a bulb syringe for delicate irrigation to alleviate the condition.
Call us right away if you need some help with an earwax blockage.