Ear Wax Removal: Cerumen Impaction Symptoms & Treatment

What Is Ear Wax?

Ear wax is a natural part of what the body does to keep the ear healthy, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO). They explain that earwax is a yellowish, waxy substance that is secreted from glands in the external ear canal and has many protective roles. Some people get freaked out when dealing with ear wax, but it is very important for cleaning the ear canal and protecting it from foreign objects and bacteria.

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), ear wax is a combination of secretions of sebaceous glands, sweat glands and skin flakes that the body naturally produces to capture dust, dirt, and other foreign particles from entering the important parts of the inner ear. Moreover, ear wax also has antimicrobial functions that block the growth of the bacteria and fungi so that we can lower the risk of infection. When the jaw moves during speech or chewing food, ear wax is slowly pushed out of the ear canal — providing an efficient cleaning system for healthy ear functioning.

Cerumen Impaction Causes

Cerumen impaction can lead to discomfort and hearing difficulties, making it important to understand the underlying causes of ear wax buildup. Ear wax, or cerumen, is produced naturally by the body to protect the ear canal, but various factors can contribute to its excessive accumulation and subsequent impaction.

Ear wax is formed by the secretion of special glands in the outer ear canal. This waxy material works to ensnare debris, dust, and microorganisms so that they cannot travel further into the ear. But some people make excess amounts of ear wax because of genetics, and others have a change in the consistency of their wax material in a way that leads to blockages, according to the AAFP. Other influences are external — such as the use of hearing aids or earplugs being used in the canal that may push some of the wax farther back in where it becomes harder for your body to expel, thus leading to impaction.

Who May Need an Ear Wax Blockage Removal?

While ear wax is a natural substance that serves an important protective function, some individuals may experience blockages that require medical attention, according to the AAFP. However, they also note that not everyone with ear wax buildup needs to visit a healthcare provider. Many people can manage minor blockages at home, especially if they are not experiencing significant discomfort or hearing loss.

Some individuals who may be more likely to experience ear wax blockages according to the AAFP are:

• People who use hearing aids, which can push wax deeper into the ear canal

• Individuals with a lot of ear hair, which can trap wax and prevent its natural expulsion

• Those who live with eczema, as skin conditions can affect ear wax production and consistency

• People who frequently use cotton swabs, which can inadvertently push wax further into the ear

• Individuals with misshapen or narrow ear canals, making it difficult for wax to exit naturally

• Older adults, whose ear wax may become drier and harder over time

• Children, who may be more prone to ear infections and wax buildup due to their developing ear anatomy

Clogged Ear Symptoms

When cerumen accumulates excessively, it can lead to a variety of uncomfortable and disruptive sensations. Recognizing the symptoms of a clogged ear due to ear wax blockage is important for getting timely intervention and treatment to relieve symptoms.

Some common symptoms associated with an ear wax blockage, according to the Audiology.org:

• Earache or discomfort in the affected ear

• Hearing loss or reduced auditory clarity

• Dizziness or a feeling of imbalance

• Tinnitus, or ringing in the ear

• Itchy sensations within the ear canal

• Discharge from the ear, which may indicate irritation

• Ear infections, which can occur due to trapped moisture and bacteria

• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear

• Coughing, which can sometimes be a reflex response to ear pressure changes

Is Impacted Ear Wax Removal Safe?

When dealing with impacted ear wax, safety is a primary concern for many individuals seeking relief from discomfort and hearing issues. The safest and most reliable way to remove impacted ear wax is by having it done by a qualified health professional, such as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or a primary care physician. These healthcare professionals are trained to assess the extent of the blockage and utilize appropriate techniques — such as irrigation, suction, or manual removal, to ensure that the ear canal is cleared without causing damage to the delicate structures of the ear.

Attempting to remove ear wax at home using tools like cotton swabs or other implements can often push the wax deeper or lead to injury, infection, or other complications, according to the AAFP. Therefore, consulting a professional is the best approach for safe and effective ear wax removal.

Professional Ear Wax Removal Treatment

Healthcare providers employ various safe and effective methods to remove ear wax. This ensures that the process is conducted with precision and care. During a typical ear wax removal procedure, the healthcare provider will first conduct a physical examination of the ear using an otoscope, which allows them to visualize the ear canal and assess the extent of the blockage. Depending on the situation, they may employ different techniques for removal.

Common methods include irrigation, where warm water or saline is gently flushed into the ear canal to dislodge the wax, or manual removal using specialized instruments like a curette or suction device, according to the AAFP. These methods are performed with care to minimize discomfort and prevent injury to the ear, ensuring that patients receive safe and effective treatment for their ear wax impaction.

When to See an Ear Wax Removal Doctor

While some individuals may experience minor blockages that can be managed at home, there are specific signs and symptoms that indicate it is time to consult a healthcare professional.

The AAFP explains that if you are experiencing significant discomfort, persistent hearing loss, or any unusual symptoms, it is advisable to seek help from an ear wax removal doctor. Additionally, individuals who use hearing aids, have a history of ear infections, or possess anatomical variations in their ear canal should also consider regular check-ups to prevent wax buildup.

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