Ear wax is a natural secretion in the human ear. Our outer ear canal is lined by skin with hair follicles and different glands. These glands secret a waxy substance, which is called cerumen. This, along with other ear debris like dead skin cells, hair, dust, germs , etc., form the ear wax.
Physiologically, it is nature’s was of removing dead tissue and germs from the ear canal. While the consistency, thickness, colour and quantity of ear wax varies in different individuals, its purpose remains the same, that is, cleansing the ear. Additionally, ear wax is also protective for the delicate skin in the ear canal.
Sometimes, wax can build up in ear canals. It is one of the most common causes of curable hearing loss. Just like some people have oily skin and others have dry skin, ear wax build up can vary from trace amounts to excessive. This wax can solidify and get impacted. This accumulated wax can cause hearing loss, ringing sound, itching, ear fullness and pain.
Removing the impacted wax is required for normal hearing and health of the ear. However, self-cleaning can do more harm. The liquid wax can be removed easily from the outer ear with the help of ear buds. The extraction of the solidified wax can be tricky. Attempt to self-removal of hardened wax can often push the wax inside and even cause ear-bleeding and injury to the ear drum. Therefore, it is advised to visit a doctor for removal of wax.
Doctors remove the wax under vision with proper instruments. If needed, a numbing solution can be used. Some patients require wax-liquifying drops for a few days before wax removal. These measures make in-clinic wax removal safe, painless and effective.
Ear wax is not a disease and there is no one-step solution or cure for it. For people with repeated wax issues, liquifying ear drops are helpful. People who use hearing aids, spend more time in water ( swimmers, divers etc.) or dust (farmers etc.) should get there ears checked regularly.
Self-cleaning of ears should be avoided. Parents should not clean ears of children by inserting instruments deeply in the ear canals. Now-a-days, many self cleaning blunt instruments are available in the market, but these should not be used without training and proper vision in the ear canal. Avoid cleaning ears with keys, pens, pins, needles etc.
With proper care and healthy habits, your ears and hearing can be preserved. Take care of ears !
