Why Do Ears Produce So Much Wax? | Ontario Hearing Centers

Ear wax, also called cerumen, is a quiet helper when it comes to ear health. We all have it, but we don’t often think about how important it is.

This sticky stuff helps protect our ears, but sometimes too much can cause problems like irritation or hearing trouble. Have you ever wondered why our ears make ear wax? Learning about why this happens can help us understand more about how our bodies work.

Understanding Ear Wax

Ear wax actually helps take care of our ears.

First, it keeps the ear canal soft and moist, like a natural moisturizer. It also protects us by catching dust, dirt, and germs that could hurt our ears.

Ear wax even has special properties that fight off infections, helping keep our ears healthy. Most of the time, our ears clean themselves by pushing out extra wax. But sometimes, too much wax builds up, which can be uncomfortable, making us wonder why our ears make so much of it.

Factors Influencing Ear Wax Production

The production rate of ear wax varies from one person to another. Let’s examine the factors influencing ear wax production.

Age: Ear wax could also undergo a change over age. Ear wax becomes drier when the patient is an elderly one. On the other hand, younger individuals usually have softer, more viscous ear wax.
Genetics: Some people naturally make more wax than others because of their genes. Different people may also have different types of ear wax, like wet or dry.
Environment: Living or working in dusty, dirty, or noisy places may cause your ears to produce more wax. This is the body’s way of protecting the ears from harmful particles.
Ear Canal Shape: Accumulation of wax depends on the shape of your ear canal. Wax will tend to build up if your ear canal has bends or if your ear canals are narrow since it is simply stuck inside.

The Significance of Ear Wax Removal

Ear wax removal is essential when ear wax causes pain or interferes with your ability to hear. Impacted ear wax may trigger hearing loss, earaches, or constant buzzing of tinnitus.

Audiologists and healthcare professionals extract stubborn buildups with safe techniques, which keep the sensitive ear canal unscathed.

Safe Ear Wax Removal Methods

Safe ear wax removal methods encompass ear drops or irrigation to soften and flush out wax. Audiologists adeptly perform manual removal when necessary. Avoiding cotton swabs or inserting objects into the ear canal is crucial, as they can push wax deeper, risking damage to the delicate ear structures.

Seeking professional guidance ensures a safe and effective wax removal process, preventing complications and preserving ear health.

Ear Wax Management

Maintain ear wax health by gently cleaning the outer ear with a washcloth and avoiding excessive removal, as some wax is beneficial. Seek professional help if facing ear wax-related discomfort or issues. Regular care and expert guidance ensure optimal ear health without compromising its natural protection.

Audiologists in Rochester, NY

Ear wax helps keep the ears moist, protects them from dust and dirt, and keeps them healthy.

However, too much ear wax may cause problems or affect your hearing. If this is the case, it’s a good idea to see an audiologist for help.

Ontario Hearing Centers connects you to the best audiologists in Rochester, NY.

Why Do Ears Produce So Much Wax