Ear Wax
Introduction to Ear Wax
Ear wax, also called cerumen is produced in the outer ear canal and additional stuff like oil, sweat and dead skin. The major component of ear wax is keratin, which is formed from the dead cells. Formation of ear wax is a part of body’s defense mechanism and is necessary for trapping dirt and preventing the microorganisms from reaching the tympanic membrane or the eardrum, thus causing harm to it and later damaging the middle and inner ear. While the presence of very little wax in the ear increases the threat of infection, extra wax may also cause infection and hearing loss.
Types of Ear Wax
There are two types of ear wax.
- Dry wax: This is also known as rice-bran wax and contains 20% fat.
- Wet wax: This consists of approximately 50% fat. It can either be hard or soft.
Signs and Symptoms of Ear wax
- Sensation of fullness in the ears
Problems Caused Owing to Excess Wax
In most cases, accumulation of ear wax is moderately harmless, and can be easily treated. The following problems may arise if there is excessive accumulation of ear wax, leading to the formation of a wax plug.
- Feeling of fullness in ear.
- Tinnitus or ringing sound in the ear.
- Trapping of bacteria in the wax, leading to infections.
Causes of Ear Wax
Blockage owing to ear wax is caused when the wax is pushed deep inside the ear canal. The major causes include the following:
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Usage of things like ear buds, hairpins, safety pins and rolled napkin corners to clean the ears.
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Usage of earplugs and hearing aids.
Diagnosis of Ear Wax
Ear wax blockage is diagnosed by a detailed history and also examination of the ear using an instrument called the otoscope.
Treatment of Ear Wax
Different methods of removal of Ear wax
An otologist or a professional treats the ear wax through direct visualization or the doctor should have access to a microscope. A small plastic spoon called a curette can be used to remove wax. Other methods used include the following:2
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Irrigation method, which is conventional and widely accepted.
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Candling method.
All these methods do have their advantages and disadvantages; hence, the physician takes care, such that no harm is caused to the middle ear.
OTC medication for ear wax
OTC medication for ear wax
Over-the-counter medications like oil and peroxide solutions are helpful. Warming the solutions can be useful to remove wax.
Home Remedies
Ear buds - a strict no-no: Though these might sound most convenient and easy to grab but are not recommended as ear buds can further push the wax deeper in the ear canal, making it all stacked up.
Tried and tested remedy: The safest home remedyis to dissolve the wax with a solution of paraffin (or mineral) oil for 4-5 days. Then syringe the ear with a warm 1:1 water-vinegar solution. The preferred is apple cider vinegar.
Self care of Ear wax
Self care of Ear wax
Do’s and Don’ts
Do's
- Try eardrops containing a wax solvent.
- Dry the inside of your ear with a hair dryer set on low after showering or shampooing your hair.
Don’ts
- Do not use cotton swabs, bobby pins, or other objects to clean the ear.
- Do not try to remove earwax if you have ear pain or a discharge that looks different than earwax, if you suspect a ruptured eardrum, if you have had ear surgery, or if you have tubes in your ears.
Advice from your doctor
Your doctor can:
- Remove excess wax using a small, curved instrument called a curette.
- Flush out the wax using a water pick or a rubber-bulb syringe filled with warm water.
- Remove excess wax using suction while inspecting the ear with the aid of a microscope.
If earwax buildup is a recurring problem, your doctor may recommend wax-removal medication, such as carbamide peroxide, every four to eight weeks as a preventive measure. These drops can irritate the delicate skin of the eardrum and ear canal, hence should be used sparingly and only on the advice of your physician.
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: July 03, 2011