It’s likely that earwax and its accumulation haven’t been subjects of significant consideration for you, except perhaps during ear hygiene sessions. Nonetheless, comprehending what causes earwax, how it forms, and its purpose is essential.
What triggers the buildup of earwax?
Earwax, also scientifically called cerumen, is composed of a combination of sweat, skin particles, hair, debris, and ceruminous gland secretions. Earwax will appear as a waxy substance that will normally be yellow, orange, brown, or even grey.
In most instances, children tend to produce more earwax than adults. Children also typically 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 is earwax important?
Earwax serves several crucial functions, such as:
- Protecting and lubricating the skin lining the ear canal, thus preventing dryness and itchiness.
- Helping prevent ear infections.
- Before things like dust, dirt, or other external debris go further up into the ear canal, earwax acts as a roadblock.
Obstructions caused by earwax
Impacted earwax is a common issue, but it’s typically the only time you need to be concerned about it. Impacted earwax can stem from narrow or abnormally shaped ear canals hindering the natural movement of earwax toward the ear’s opening.
Poor ear hygiene methods, such as using cotton swabs or bobby pins, can inadvertently push wax deeper into the ear canal.
People grappling with hearing loss who make use of earplugs or hearing aids are also predisposed to experiencing ear canal blockages.
How excessive earwax can impact hearing
The presence of earwax blockages may yield mild discomfort and impact auditory health.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, might also happen.
Untreated earwax blockages might intensify into middle ear infections, perforated eardrums, or enduring hearing impairment due to acoustic trauma.
Dealing with impacted earwax
It’s crucial 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 blockage, you might be advised to utilize over-the-counter wax softening drops or a bulb syringe for gentle irrigation to relieve the condition.
Give us a call right away if you need some help with an earwax blockage.
