You might be surprised to learn that earwax, medically referred to as cerumen, isn’t just a byproduct of the body – it serves an important purpose! It acts as a natural lubricant and helps to protect the ear canal from dust, debris, and even infections. Earwax comes in two main types: wet, which is moist and sticky, and dry, which is flaky and dry. These variations are genetic and perfectly normal. It’s crucial to remember that earwax isn’t “dirt.” It’s a natural substance with antimicrobial properties that help keep your ears healthy.
A widely believed myth in our society is that you need to constantly clean deep inside your ear canal. In most cases, this is unnecessary and can be harmful to the overall health of your ears. Attempting to clean your ears deeply with cotton swabs or other devices can push earwax further down the ear canal, potentially causing impactions that require professional removal by an ear specialist. Wax impactions can lead to discomfort, hearing loss, and even infection.
Safe At-Home Ear Care Tips
Here are some safe and effective tips for ear care:
- Avoid Q-tips: Using cotton swabs can push earwax further into the ear canal, potentially damaging the eardrum and causing impactions.
- Clean the outer ear: Gently wipe the outer part of your ear with a damp cloth.
- Use ear drops (if necessary): If you experience excessive earwax buildup, consult an ear specialist about using ear drops. Dr. Zuniga explains more about at-home ear care in this video.
When to See an Ear Specialist
While occasional earwax buildup is normal, you should see an ear specialist if you experience:
- Excessive earwax buildup: This can lead to hearing loss, ear fullness, or even tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
- Hearing loss: If you notice a sudden or gradual decline in hearing.
- Ear pain: Persistent ear pain can indicate an underlying issue.
- Discharge from the ear: Any unusual discharge from the ear should be evaluated.
Earwax is a natural and essential part of your body’s defense system. By understanding its purpose and following these simple tips, you can maintain healthy ears.
If you have any concerns about earwax or your hearing, please don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our physicians. If you’re interested in learning even more about cerumen, including what to do if you suspect you have too much wax and helpful products to try, check out this webinar with our experts.