Earwax buildup, like other secretions, is something that most of us deal privately.
Earwax or ear cerumen is the oily substance that our ears produce. This earwax buildup that are normally found in the outer ear canal, protects the ear from water, dust and foreign particles and microorganisms from entering inside our inner ear. In normal circumstances, excess wax finds its way out of the canal and into the ear opening naturally, it dries up and falls by itself.
But when the glands in your ear make more earwax than necessary, it becomes hard and could eventually block the ear. If you happen to accidentally push the earwax deep within the ear canal while cleaning your ears, it allows further blockage, leading to temporary hearing loss.
Reports show that earwax blockage affects about 6% of people and is noted to be one of the most common ear problems. People who frequently use Q-tips, bobby pins or rolled napkin corners, hearing aids and earplug are prone to develop the blockage. Although, these utensils can remove superficial wax, they also puss the rest of the wax deeper into the ear canal.
Signs and Symptoms of Earwax Buildup include:
- temporary hearing loss
- dizziness
- tinnitus (ringing of ears)
- ear pain
- feeling of fullness on the ear
- itching or drainage coming out of the ear canal
- if left untreated it causes infection (fever, persistent hearing loss, odorous drainage from the ear and severe pain)
How can we get rid of earwax buildup?
- Soften the earwax by using any of these softening drops (mineral oil, hydrogen peroxide, baby oil). Drop it into the affected ear and allow to drain out after about five minutes while holding the head to the side, allowing the drops to settle.
- Gently flush the affected ear with warm water using a bulb-type syringe. Note that the water should be at room temperature to prevent dizziness.
- Never try “ear candles” from removing earwax , as per U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that these are not safe to use and have no therapeutic value. These ear candles can cause bleeding, punctured eardrum, and burns to the outer ear.
- Avoid using cotton buds, it can push earwax further inside the ear.
If you’re still having problems with earwax buildup, it would be necessary for you to pay a visit with an ear specialist for proper and safe treatment.
