It is a disgusting sticky substance that builds up in the ear and forms a yellow-brown clump. Ear wax is considered disgusting and unattractive, so everyone tries to keep their ears clean. In most cases, a cotton swab is used for this. Did you know that ear, nose, and throat doctors usually do not recommend this method? Using cotton swabs can damage your hearing.
what is earwax? What is its purpose? And how should we remove them, anyway?
What is ear wax?
Ear wax (cerumen) is produced by glands in the ear canal. While scientists are still not entirely sure why we have it in the ear, it traps dust and particles and prevents them from damaging the eardrum.
When we use cotton swabs, pen covers, or other objects, the wax is pushed deeper into the ear. The ear canal can be easily irritated, putting our hearing at risk. One of the most common causes of hearing loss is a wax blockage. It is often caused by cleaning the ears with cotton swabs.
How to remove ear wax
Cleaning the ears is easy. Wash the outside of the ear with a soft cloth, but do not put anything in the ear canal. Over-the-counter ear drops and home remedies such as placing a few drops of mineral or baby oil into the ear can also help.
Do not use an ear candle! It is dangerous and can cause injuries such as burns and blockage of the entire ear canal.
The most effective way to remove ear wax is to visit an ENT doctor. These physicians remove the wax using microscopic visualization. They are also able to determine if there is any problem with the structure of the ear.
Removing ear wax is necessary sometimes. The problem arises from the methods by which they are removed. Ensure that you visit the doctor anytime you need to get your ears cleaned. This will go a long way in ensuring that you have healthy ears for a long time.
REFERENCES
1. Health Havard. By the way, doctor: What can I do about earwax buildup? Available at https://health.havard.edu
2. Raleigh C. (2016). EARWAX: WHAT’S THE SCOOP? Available at https://https://www.raleighcapitolent.com/blog/earwax-what-is-the-scoop?entryid=36&tabid=89
