Earwax is a completely natural substance that serves an important role in cleaning and protecting the ear. In excess, however, it can begin to cause problems. This is when you may need to seek help to remove it.
Why Do We Have Earwax?
The ear canal secretes wax, known as cerumen in medical parlance, as a way to clean the ear. As the wax travels through the canal, it collects particulate matter, which is then expelled. It also works as a lubricant. Earwax may have antimicrobial properties to further protect the ear from bacteria and fungi.
When Does It Need Removing?
Most earwax falls from the ear naturally, but in some cases it can build up in the ear canal. This blocks the passage of sound, creating problems with your hearing, particularly if it clogs the mechanism of your hearing aids. The excess earwax can also become quite uncomfortable, causing itchiness or even pain if it starts to harden. You may experience tinnitus, or a ringing or buzzing, in your ears. Blocked ears may lead to you experiencing dizziness or other symptoms of vertigo. If it is not removed, the wax creates a warm, moist environment in the ear canal that can encourage the growth of bacteria or fungi, leading to ear infections.
How to Remove Earwax
It is important not to try and remove earwax with your fingers or cotton buds, as this can push the wax further into the ear and cause damage. At-home remedies include using a few drops of olive or almond oil on the wax whilst you lie on your side. Ear wax removal Poole, whether from an ear specialist or your GP, may include manual removal, when the wax is scraped out with a small tool, irrigation or syringing, which is when it is washed out with water, or microsuction, when it is sucked out with a small tube. The Earwax website can provide more detailed examples.
If earwax is starting to cause you discomfort or interfere with your hearing, talk with a professional about the different treatment options.
