4 Fast Facts About Ear Cleaning

Ear hygiene is an important but often overlooked part of personal care. While it may be tempting to remove earwax yourself, the ear is a self-cleaning organ with a balance that can be harmed by improper cleaning. Earwax, or cerumen, plays a vital role in protecting the ear by trapping dust and debris. Using safe cleaning methods is essential to keeping your ears healthy and avoiding issues like infections, hearing loss or eardrum damage. Here are four fast facts about ear cleaning.

Earwax is Necessary

Earwax doesn’t mean your ears are dirty – it’s actually a natural and important part of ear health. Your ears produce wax to protect the ear canal and inner ear by keeping them lubricated and repelling water. As earwax naturally drains out of the ear canal, it carries away dirt, dead skin cells and other unwanted particles, making your ears self-cleaning. You can simply wash away any wax on the outer ear during a shower or wipe it off with a cloth.

Impacted Earwax is a Problem

Impacted earwax occurs when a buildup of wax hardens and blocks the ear canal, leading to symptoms like reduced hearing, discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the ear. While earwax plays an important role in protecting the ear by trapping dirt and debris, excessive accumulation or incorrect cleaning methods can cause it to become compacted. This blockage may also trap moisture, increasing the chance of bacterial growth and potential ear infections. In all of these cases, impacted earwax can interfere with your hearing. You might have earache, ringing in your ears, poor hearing or even dizziness, coughing or an unpleasant smell.

If you suspect impacted earwax, it’s essential to consult an audiologist for professional assistance, as attempting to remove it on your own can worsen the issue or harm the delicate structures of your ear.

Cotton Swabs Can Pose a Risk

Some methods of self-cleaning your ears can create more issues than they solve. Cotton swabs are a common example, as they often push earwax deeper into the ear rather than removing it. Inserting a cotton swab can also cause harm, like irritating the delicate skin or disrupting the tiny hairs in the ear canal. In some cases, it can lead to a larger blockage or even injury. Cotton swabs are safest when used to clean the outer ear, but they should never be placed inside the ear canal. Similarly, other objects should be avoided as they can increase the risk of blockages, irritation, or infections.

Audiologists Can Clean Your Ears

If you’re dealing with blocked earwax or feel the need for a more thorough cleaning, professional ear care is a reliable option. Audiologists are trained to safely remove impacted wax, along with any trapped dirt or dead skin that may have built up in your ears. This method is both safe and effective, ensuring that your ear health is maintained without the risks associated with at-home cleaning attempts.

If you have concerns about your ear health, scheduling an appointment with an audiologist can provide relief and peace of mind. An audiologist can look through your ear to determine the best treatment for you.