You Ask , They Answer
Q
: What ’ s earwax and why is it beneficial ?
A
: Also known as cerumen , earwax is a waxy substance naturally secreted by specialised glands in the ear canal .
It provides a few beneficial purposes to our ears . Firstly , earwax lines , lubricates , and moisturises our ear canals , preventing the ear canal from becoming dry and itchy . Since earwax is sticky , it also helps trap dust , dirt and other particles , preventing them from entering deeper into the ear canal . In addition , earwax has antibacterial and antiviral properties , and helps maintain an appropriate pH in the ear canal , creating an environment that discourages growth of bacteria and fungi .
Q
: How does an earwax blockage occur and what are its risks ?
A
: An earwax blockage occurs when earwax accumulates and becomes stuck in the ear canal . Though the ear is meant to be self-cleaning , there are a few reasons why this may occur .
Some individuals naturally produce more earwax than others , making them more prone to earwax blockage . Certain patients may also have narrower or angled ear canals , which may make it more difficult for earwax to work its way out naturally .
Improper cleaning of the ears , such as inserting cotton buds into the ears , can also contribute to earwax blockage . Patients commonly end up pushing earwax further and further into the ear , making it harder for the sticky substance to fall out on its own . We have also seen patients who use cotton buds to clear earwax blockage and end up puncturing their ear drums , resulting in potentially permanent hearing loss .
Complete blockage of the ear canal by earwax can cause hearing loss , a sensation of blocked ear , and a ringing / buzzing sound in the ear . It may also increase the risk of ear infections as it creates a favorable environment for bacterial and fungal growth .
Q
: How can people spot a blockage and should they always see an ENT specialist ?
A
: The most common symptom of earwax blockage is a sensation of a blocked ear . This most commonly occurs suddenly after a shower or after swimming as the water pressure pushes the earwax against the ear drum , resulting in a sensation of ear blockage .
Other symptoms of ear wax blockage include ear discomfort , a ringing or buzzing sound in the affected ear ( tinnitus ) as well as decreased hearing . If earwax blockage has led to an infection , there may be ear discharge or a foul smell coming from the ear .
While some minor earwax blockages can be cured with home treatments such as ear drops , one should see a doctor if there are other symptoms such as ear discharge , hearing loss , or a failure to improve despite home treatments . An ENT specialist has knowledge and experience in managing all ear-related conditions and can remove earwax using techniques such as irrigation and micro-suction .
Q
: Can people prevent or reduce the risk of earwax blockages ?
A
: Firstly , avoid inserting cotton buds or any other foreign objects into the ear canal as this may push the earwax deeper in and increase the chance of blockage . Secondly , do allow your ears to naturally clean themselves and avoid excessively removing earwax . Lastly , if you are prone to excessive earwax production , you may want to see an ENT specialist regularly to remove earwax safely and maintain proper ear health .
Dr Leslie Koh
Dr Leslie Koh is an ear , nose , and throat specialist at The ENT Specialist Centre in Singapore .
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