Chances are, earwax and its buildup haven’t been subjects of extensive contemplation for you, except maybe during ear hygiene routines. Still, it’s crucial to have an understanding of its purpose and how it forms.
So why does earwax build-up?
Earwax, technically known as cerumen, is a thick blend of debris, hair, skin particles, sweat, and ceruminous gland secretions. This earwax presents with a waxy texture and can exhibit shades of orange, yellow, gray, or brown.
In most situations, children tend to produce 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 essential?
Here are some essential functions that earwax serves:
- Protecting and lubricating the skin lining the ear canal, thereby preventing dryness and itchiness.
- Before things like dust, dirt, or other outside debris get further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a barrier.
- Fending off potential infections that might arise within the ear canal.
Blockages caused by earwax
Usually, there’s no critical need to remove earwax from your ears unless it becomes impacted, a prevalent issue associated with earwax. Impacted earwax can be the result of narrow or abnormally shaped ear canals impeding the normal movement of earwax toward the ear’s periphery.
Wax can be accidentally pushed up into the ear canal by utilizing improper cleaning practices like using cotton swabs.
Individuals grappling with hearing loss who use earplugs or hearing aids are also predisposed to experiencing ear canal obstructions.
How too much earwax can impact hearing
The presence of earwax blockages might yield mild discomfort and impact auditory health.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, may also occur.
Neglected earwax blockages may escalate into middle ear infections, perforated eardrums, or lasting hearing impairment due to acoustic trauma.
Dealing with impacted earwax
It’s crucial that you get in touch with us as soon as you can if you think your ears are blocked by earwax. Depending on the severity of the obstruction, you might be advised to make use of over-the-counter wax softening drops or a bulb syringe for gentle irrigation to alleviate the condition.
If you’re worried about your earwax buildup, call us today to schedule an appointment.