Earwax, also known as cerumen, is something most people don’t think about until it becomes an issue. Although it may seem unpleasant, earwax plays a vital role in ear health. However, when it accumulates excessively, it can interfere with hearing and cause discomfort. By understanding the function of earwax, the risks associated with improper removal, and the benefits of consulting a professional, you can take better care of your ears.
Earwax is a natural substance produced by glands in the outer part of the ear canal. It consists of sweat, oil, skin cells, and other debris, serving several important functions:
For most people, earwax migrates out of the ear naturally, making it easy to wash away during regular bathing.
While earwax is generally harmless and self-regulating, some individuals may produce excessive amounts or have ear canals that impede natural drainage. This can lead to earwax impaction, where the wax becomes hard, dry, and builds up in the ear canal.
Symptoms of earwax blockage can include:
Wax buildup can also affect the performance of hearing aids, leading to feedback or muffled sound. For those using hearing devices, regular monitoring of ear health is particularly important.
It might be tempting to remove earwax yourself using cotton swabs, hairpins, or ear candles; however, these methods are strongly discouraged. Cotton swabs often push wax deeper into the ear canal, worsening the blockage. Inserting objects into the ear can also cause abrasions, infections, or even damage to the eardrum.
Ear candles, although marketed as a natural remedy, are not only ineffective but also pose serious risks, such as burns or wax dripping into the ear canal.
If you suspect a wax blockage or experience any symptoms, the safest course of action is to consult a hearing care professional or audiologist. These specialists have the tools and training to remove earwax safely and comfortably.
Professional removal methods include:
These procedures are quick, effective, and typically painless, helping to ensure your hearing remains sharp and your ears stay healthy.
Not everyone requires regular earwax removal, but it is advisable to have your ears checked if you:
Hearing health is closely related to overall well-being. Addressing small issues like earwax buildup can prevent larger problems and ensure your ears are functioning properly.
Earwax is essential for healthy ears, but when it accumulates, it can lead to issues. Avoid DIY removal methods and instead rely on a hearing care professional for safe, effective treatment. Regular check-ups and cleanings can help keep your ears clear, ensure your hearing remains sharp, and allow your devices to function properly.
Thomas Caruso is a second-generation, Nationally Board Certified Hearing Healthcare Dispensing Practitioner with over 40 years of experience serving patients in both New York and Pennsylvania. Specializing in adult hearing care, he earned his National Board Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences in 1988.
Throughout his distinguished career, Thomas has not only provided exceptional patient care but has also contributed to the advancement of the hearing healthcare field. He has served as an educator and consultant to many of the nation’s leading hearing aid manufacturers, retailers and laboratories, sharing his knowledge and expertise to help shape best practices within the profession. His work has taken him across the United States and Canada.
Born and raised in Jamestown, New York—where he continues to reside with his family—Thomas has been a dedicated member of the International Hearing Society since 1984 and is actively involved in the Hearing Healthcare Alliance of New York State. His commitment to the profession, combined with his decades of experience, has made him a trusted and respected leader in hearing healthcare.
