Did you know that the earwax in your ears is as crucial for your hearing health as brushing is for your teeth? Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. Not only does it serve as a protective barrier, shielding the delicate structures of the ear from foreign particles, moisture, and microbial invaders, but it also aids in cleaning and lubricating the ear canal, facilitating the removal of dirt, debris, and dead skin cells.
Despite a seemingly unassuming presence, earwax plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and functionality of the ear. And it’s a problem when you have too much of it.
The Hidden Dangers of Too Much Earwax
Excessive earwax buildup, also known as cerumen impaction, can cause various symptoms. Here are some signs that you may have too much earwax:
- Earache or pain: Discomfort in the affected ear, ranging from mild to severe and can be constant or intermittent.
- Hearing loss: Excessive earwax blocks the ear canal, preventing sound waves from reaching the eardrum effectively.
- Tinnitus: Ringing, buzzing, or other noises in the ear, which occurs when earwax blocks external sounds, causing the brain to perceive internal noises.
- Feeling of fullness: A sensation of fullness or pressure in the affected ear due to the buildup of earwax.
- Itching or discharge: Excessive earwax can irritate the ear canal, causing itching or discharge from the ear.
- Coughing: In some cases, excess earwax can stimulate the cough reflex, leading to persistent coughing.
- Vertigo or dizziness: In rare cases, a severe buildup of earwax may affect the balance organs in the inner ear, leading to symptoms of vertigo or dizziness.
Why You Should Not Remove Earwax on Your Own
The ear is a delicate organ with easily damaged structures. Removing earwax with cotton buds or other tools is not advised, as it can push the wax further in, leading to impaction or damage to the ear canal and eardrum. There are instances where the tympanic membrane, or eardrum, gets ruptured by accident through the use of such tools. Additionally, the fragile skin of the ear canal may bleed if scratched accidentally.
The Importance of Professional Earwax Removal
Professional earwax removal is performed by providers who use safe and effective methods to clear blockages without compromising the integrity of the ear structures.
At The Hearing Room, we provide earwax removal by irrigation, a fast and non-invasive way to deal with excessive earwax using specialised equipment designed by Otologists. The experience is so comfortable that many compared it to an ear spa.
FAQs
- How often should you get professional earwax removal?
There is no set schedule for professional earwax removal as it depends on the individual’s earwax production and personal needs. Some may require it a few times a year, while others might need it less frequently or not at all. The American Academy of Otolaryngology suggests that you should consider professional earwax removal when you experience symptoms of an impaction, such as partial hearing loss, tinnitus, a feeling of fullness in the ear, or ear pain.
- Can earwax removal improve my hearing immediately?
Yes, if hearing loss is caused by a buildup of earwax, then its removal can often result in immediate hearing improvement. According to the American Hearing Research Foundation, normal hearing typically resumes once the blockage is cleared. However, if the hearing loss is not solely due to earwax blockage, or not caused by it at all, it’s important to conduct further investigations to determine the underlying cause of the hearing impairment.
- Are there any side effects to professional earwax removal?
Side effects from professional earwax removal are usually minor and temporary. According to the British Journal of General Practice, these can include otitis externa (inflammation of the outer ear canal), perforation of the eardrum, and tinnitus. However, these risks are significantly lower when the procedure is performed by a healthcare professional.
- How can I prevent earwax blockages in the future?
To prevent earwax blockages, the Mayo Clinic recommends avoiding the use of cotton swabs (cotton buds – same comment!) or small objects to clean the ears as these can push the wax deeper into the ear canal. Keeping the outer ear clean and using over-the-counter wax softening drops can also help.
- Is earwax removal painful?
Professional earwax removal should not be painful. While some people may experience mild discomfort, significant pain is not typical and should be communicated to the healthcare professional immediately.
- Can I use ear candles for earwax removal?
The use of ear candles is strongly discouraged by medical professionals, including the American Academy of Audiology. This practice can lead to serious injuries, including burns, ear canal obstructions, and even perforated eardrums. There is also no scientific evidence to support their effectiveness for earwax removal.
Don’t let earwax buildup affect your experience in the world. Book our Earwax Removal Service today and hear what you’ve been missing!
