The Essential Role of Earwax in Maintaining Ear Health
Mention earwax and most people will wrinkle their noses in distaste. But it plays an essential role in maintaining ear health, serving as a natural protector and lubricant for the ear canal. Among other things, it prevents dirt and debris from reaching the eardrum.
Over time, however, wax can accumulate, leading to potential discomfort or temporary hearing loss. Many people find themselves needing to address excessive earwax at some point in their lives, perhaps when it has resulted in a blocked ear or ears.
Dangers of Improper Ear Cleaning Techniques
Healthcare professionals advise against using devices like cotton buds for cleaning the ear canal. They can often cause more harm than good.
The design of the cotton swab is inherently flawed for this purpose: rather than extracting wax, they often compact it deeper into the ear canal, which can result in blockages that may impair hearing.
In extreme cases, there is a risk of puncturing the eardrum if a cotton bud is pushed in too far. Most people don’t realise that the ear canal is only about an inch (2.5cm) long.
Earwax has many positive properties. It functions as an antibacterial and antifungal agent, aiding in the overall protection of the ear. It gathers dead skin cells and dirt, and moves them naturally towards the outer ear, requiring no outside intervention.
Certain individuals, particularly those who wear hearing aids, may find themselves with more persistent wax buildup because of the additional vibrations within the ear. Excessive earwax can also cause tinnitus, a persistent ringing in the ears. For those experiencing issues related to earwax, seeking medical advice is recommended.
Safe at home cleaning methods:
- Wiping with a damp washcloth: this method allows for gentle cleaning of the outer ear without intruding into the sensitive ear canal.
- Over-the-counter ear drops: these drops can assist in softening earwax but should be used with caution, particularly if there is a history of eardrum damage.
Despite the plethora of ear cleaning methods available, there are several practices that specialist warnings have deemed unsafe. "Ear-candling" has gained traction as a trendy solution among certain enthusiasts, but medical professionals have cautioned against its use with serious risks such as burns and punctures.
Additionally, devices promising to reach deep into the ear and remove wax can lead to injury or infection, particularly when sharp instruments are involved.
People with specific medical conditions, including diabetes and those on blood thinners, should approach ear cleaning with care. Minor cuts sustained inside the ear can result in complications, making it more advisable to seek professional assistance for cleaning.
Professional Ear Care and Microsuction Solutions
Certified audiologists such as Hearology® use microsuction to clean wax from the ear. This is a far superior, and less dangerous, method than syringing, which was historically the most popular method of wax removal.
“Regular ear health consultations, sometimes indicating the need for ear cleaning, are crucial for ensuring optimal ear health. Just as you do annually for your eyes and teeth,” says Eva Opitz, Clinical Audiologist at Hearology®. “Ignoring earwax build-up can lead to complications, such as discomfort, infections, tinnitus, and even temporary hearing loss. Microsuction is a safe and effective method for ear cleaning, and we highly recommend it for those experiencing persistent issues.”
References
- Best way to clean your ears - Discusses the risks associated with using Q-tips for ear cleaning, highlighting how they can push wax deeper into the ear canal.
- Ear Infections: Remedies and Treatments - Discusses various methods for safely removing earwax, emphasizing the importance of avoiding sharp objects and Q-tips.
- Harvard Health Publishing - Discusses earwax's composition and natural removal process, emphasizing that most people do not need to intervene.
- Mayo Clinic - Explains the symptoms and risks of earwax blockage, including hearing loss and discomfort.
- Mount Sinai - Provides information on earwax's protective role and the potential for wax buildup to cause hearing issues.
- Tips for Cleaning Your Ears Safely - Provides guidance on safe ear cleaning practices, including using a damp washcloth and over-the-counter ear drops.
- UCHealth - Emphasizes the importance of earwax as a natural barrier against debris and bacteria, and advises against using cotton swabs for ear cleaning.
- Understanding the basics of ear wax - Explains the essential functions of earwax, including protecting and lubricating the ear canal, and highlights the risks associated with excessive earwax buildup.
