If you have been wondering about the use of earwax, we have answers for you. Earwax helps to maintain your ear health, but an excessive buildup can lead to discomfort and even hearing loss. Fortunately, there are effective ways to prevent earwax blockages and ensure optimal ear health. Another name for earwax is cerumen, and it is a natural substance produced by the ear canal. Cerumen protects the ear by trapping dust, debris, and microorganisms; but, too much earwax can cause blockages, and lead to ear pain, temporary hearing loss, or ringing.
Why Do Earwax Blockages Occur?
Earwax blockages happen when the earwax accumulates and hardens in your ear canal. Factors such as overproduction of earwax, improper cleaning practices that further push wax deeper into the ear, and anatomical variations in the ear canal that make the wax more impacted can cause the buildup. If you have these blockages, you can experience earaches, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and reduced hearing. Practicing regular ear hygiene and proper care can prevent discomfort and potential complications.
Signs You Have Earwax Blockage
It’s important to know the signs of earwax blockage so you can address them early and keep your ears healthy. You might notice a feeling of fullness in your ear, similar to having water stuck after swimming. Your hearing may become muffled or you might experience hearing loss, sometimes making sounds seem distorted. Some people hear ringing or buzzing (known as tinnitus) that isn’t coming from outside. If there’s any discharge, ranging from clear fluid to pus, it could mean there’s an infection due to trapped bacteria or fungi. If you spot any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare professional to find out the best way to treat it.
Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but these can actually push wax deeper into into your ear canal; so, it’s better to let earwax come out naturally. If you do need to clean your ears, try gently wiping around the outer ear with a damp cloth. This helps avoid pushing wax in further and reduces the risk of blockages. Earbuds can also compact earwax, so try to use them less often. When you do use them, make sure to clean them regularly to keep bacteria and debris from building up. Over-ear headphones are a great alternative since they put less pressure on your ear canal and help keep your ears healthy.
Ensure Ear Hygiene and Stay Hydrated
Keeping your ears clean is simple and easy. Just wash the outer part with mild soap and water regularly. Be sure to avoid sticking anything into your ear canal, as this can irritate the skin and actually cause more wax to build up. Good ear hygiene not only prevents blockages but also promotes overall ear health. Staying hydrated also helps keep earwax soft, reducing the chance of it hardening and causing issues. So, drinking plenty of water is good for your ears and your whole body!
There are home remedies you can use for mild cases if you have earwax blockage. First, try over-the-counter ear drops to soften the wax. You can also use warm oil or hydrogen peroxide to soften the wax for easy removal. Ensure that you follow the instructions given by your hearing health professional and schedule a consultation if you’re unsure about what to do. Home remedies can be effective, but they require careful application.
When to Seek Professional Help
If home remedies don’t work or symptoms persist, please seek professional help. We advise that you go for a hearing health exam so that the extent of the blockage can be assessed and the best treatment option can be recommended. Your hearing health professional may use suction or irrigation techniques to safely remove the wax. Seeking timely professional assistance ensures that any underlying issues are also addressed. In addition to addressing blockages, regular check-ups with a hearing health professional can help monitor your hearing health. These exams can detect any changes in hearing and provide early intervention if needed. Take proactive steps today by contacting us!