The Problems with Too Much Earwax

Earwax is a natural substance produced by the body to protect the ear canal and eardrum. In addition, it acts as a lubricant and helps to keep out dust and other particles. Typically, earwax moves from the inside of the ear to the outside, where it is then washed away. However, sometimes too much earwax can build up and cause problems. In this blog post, we will discuss the problems associated with too much earwax and how to treat them.

Impacted Earwax

Earwax is a natural substance that helps protect the ear canal and inner ear from infection and water damage. Usually, there is just enough wax in the ear to keep it healthy. Wax moves toward the opening of the ear canal, where it eventually falls out.

However, when too much wax accumulates, it can cause problems such as hearing loss, ringing in the ears, itching or fullness in the ear and pain. If you have too much earwax, it can block your ear canal and make it difficult to hear. Earwax can also cause pain, itching and discharge from the ear.

If the earwax is not removed, it can harden and become impacted, which can lead to severe problems. Impacted earwax can cause infection, hearing loss and even damage to the eardrum.

What Cause Too Much Earwax

There are a few things that can cause too much earwax. One is genetics – some people just produce more wax than others. Or it could be because you clean your ears too often. This can irritate the skin in your ear canal and lead to more wax being produced. Another thing that can cause too much wax is wearing hearing aids or other devices in your ears.

These devices can block the natural movement of wax out of your ears. Another is using something in your ear that doesn’t allow the wax to fall out on its own, like cotton swabs. And finally, some medical conditions can cause an overproduction of earwax.

Symptoms

Symptoms of too much earwax include:

• Earache or pain in the ear
• A feeling of fullness in the ear
• Difficulty hearing
• Ringing in the ears
• Itching inside the ear canal
• Drainage from the ear

Possible Problems

Earwax accumulates over time and can cause problems if too much builds up. Earwax buildup can lead to:

• Blockage of the ear canal, which can impact hearing.
• Itching or irritation inside the ear.
• Odor coming from the ear
• Canker sores or other infections in or around the mouth or throat.
• Damage to the eardrum
• Hearing loss: If left untreated, an excessive buildup of wax can eventually cause hearing loss. This is because the wax will block sound from reaching the eardrum.
• Earache: The wax can become impacted and trap bacteria and other debris inside the ear canal, causing pain. This is usually worse when trying to sleep on that side or chew food loudly.
• Swimmer’s ear: This condition is caused by water getting trapped in the ear canal, allowing bacteria to grow. The wax can make it difficult for the water to drain out, increasing the risk of infection.

Different Ways to Remove Earwax

If you think you might have too much earwax, there are several things you can do to remove it. One is to simply clean the affected area with a cotton swab or other soft object. This should only be done carefully, however, as inserting anything into the ear canal could damage the delicate skin or push the wax further down.

Another option is to use over-the-counter eardrops designed to soften the wax and help it to drain out. If neither of these methods works, an audiologist can remove the wax with special instruments. There are several methods for removing earwax, including irrigation, suctioning and curettage. And remember, never try to remove earwax with anything sharp or pointed, as this can damage the delicate tissues in the ear canal.

It’s important to remember that too much earwax is not normal, and it should be dealt with promptly. Left untreated, it can lead to more serious problems. So, if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, see your audiologist right away. They will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend an appropriate course of treatment.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about earwax, call the Salyer Hearing Center today at Sylva: 828-586-7474, Franklin: 828-524-5599 and Murphy: 828-835-1014.