It’s likely that earwax and its accumulation haven’t been subjects of significant contemplation for you, except perhaps during ear hygiene sessions. Nonetheless, understanding what causes earwax, how it forms, and its purpose is essential.
What causes the accumulation of earwax?
Earwax, also technically called cerumen, is made up of a mix 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 instances, children tend to generate more earwax than adults. Kids also usually have softer earwax that’s lighter in color than adults.
Earwax gets expelled or washed out after going by the outer ear canal and reaching the opening of the ear.
Why is earwax essential?
Earwax serves several essential functions, such as:
- Helping counter ear infections.
- Acting as a protective barricade against outside irritants including dirt, dust, and other foreign particles before they penetrate deeper into the ear.
- Protecting and moisturizing the skin lining the ear canal, thereby preventing dryness and itchiness.
Obstructions caused by earwax
Impacted earwax is a common issue, but it’s typically 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.
Improper ear hygiene methods, such as using cotton swabs or bobby pins, can unintentionally push wax deeper into the ear canal.
Earwax obstructions are frequently experienced by people who often use earplugs, earbuds, or hearing aids.
How is hearing affected by excessive earwax?
Auditory health might be hindered and you might feel slight discomfort.
In addition, significant accumulations of earwax can induce tinnitus, a sensation of ringing in the ears.
Acoustic trauma might lead to long-term hearing loss, perforated eardrums, and long-term hearing loss if earwax blockages go neglected.
Addressing impacted earwax
If you suspect an earwax blockage, consulting us promptly is imperative. You might be advised to use over-the-counter products like a bulb syringe or earwax softening drops to clear the wax out, depending on the severity of the blockage.
Call us right away if you need some help with an earwax blockage.