You most likely don’t give much thought to earwax accumulation unless you’re in the process of clearing it out. Still, it’s crucial to have an understanding of its purpose and how it forms.
So why does earwax accumulate?
Earwax, also technically called cerumen, is made up of a combination of sweat, skin particles, hair, debris, and ceruminous gland secretions. This earwax presents with a waxy texture and can show shades of orange, yellow, gray, or brown.
While the production amount of earwax differs from individual to individual, adults usually produce less earwax than children. Children also normally have softer earwax that’s lighter in color than adults.
Earwax gets discharged or washed out after passing the outer ear canal and reaching the opening of the ear.
Why do we need earwax?
Here are some crucial functions that earwax serves:
- Helping prevent ear infections.
- Preventing itchiness and dryness by lubricating and protecting the lining of the ear canal.
- Acting as a protective barricade against external irritants such as dirt, dust, and other foreign particles before they infiltrate deeper into the ear.
Earwax obstructions
Impacted earwax is a common problem, but it’s usually the only time you need to be concerned 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.
Wax can be accidentally pushed up into the ear canal by utilizing poor cleaning methods like using cotton swabs.
Individuals grappling with hearing loss who utilize earplugs or hearing aids are also predisposed to experiencing ear canal blockages.
How excessive earwax can impact hearing
Auditory health may be impeded and you might feel mild discomfort.
Ringing in the ears, or tinnitus, could also occur.
Acoustic trauma may result in long-term hearing loss, perforated eardrums, and long-term hearing loss if earwax obstructions go ignored.
Addressing impacted earwax
Should you think you have an earwax blockage, consulting us quickly is imperative. 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 delicate irrigation to relieve the condition.
Give us a call right away if you need some assistance with an earwax blockage.
