Ear wax occurs naturally and has importance for ear function and health, but for many people it can become an on-going issue that requires upkeep and attention. Added to that the fact that people can’t see inside their own ears to know what is really going on, there is an element of the unknown and some fear associated with ear wax problems.
Definition
Ear wax, or cerumen, is a normal product in the ears that protects the ear canal by trapping dirt and slowing bacterial growth. The ear is lined with tiny hair follicles and glands that create ear wax. The wax also helps protect the skin of the ear canal from getting irritated when water enters. As such, ear wax is a defense mechanism that is important to overall health. Ear wax is made in the outer ear canal, which is between the part of the ear that is visible, and the middle ear.
Causes of Blockage
The amount of ear wax created varies from person to person and some people experience more wax buildup than can easily be removed. For many people, ear wax makes its way to the outer ear and falls out or is removed by washing. Ear wax blockage happens when the ear wax builds up in the ear and is too hard to wash away.
In the case of excessive production, blockage is a naturally-occurring problem. Some ear wax blockage is caused by not clearing out the old wax effectively and properly. Trying to clear the ears using a cotton swab or other item can push the wax deeper into the ear canal thereby causing blockage.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of ear wax problems are an earache; a sense of fullness in the ear or a feeling that the ear is plugged; noises in the ear as in tinnitus; and decreased hearing ability in the ear. See a doctor for an evaluation of these symptoms to make sure there isn’t an underlying cause for hearing and ear issues other than a wax buildup. Only a doctor can tell by looking into the ears with special instruments if the problem is caused by excessive wax buildup .
Treatment
As long as the eardrum is intact, which means the ear doesn't contain an inserted tube or a hole in the eardrum, there are some at home self-care measures that may help remove ear wax. To soften wax, an eyedropper filled with either baby oil, mineral oil, glycerin or hydrogen peroxide can be used three drops at a time, twice a day, for up to five days.
After the wax is softened, a rubber-bulb syringe filled with warm water is squirted into the ear canal. Make sure the head is tilted to the opposite side of the affected ear when inserting the water, and tip the head back over to let it drain. Retail locations offer an ear wax removal kit that has all the necessary items in one box. Talk to a doctor about what kit may be most appropriate.
A doctor can remove ear wax blockage in the office by using irrigation, suctioning the ear canal or using a curette. In rare cases, a microscope is needed to assist.
Considerations
Consult a doctor if the home ear wax removal methods are not successful. Attempting to remove ear wax using devices like cotton-tipped applicators, pen caps, hair pins or other measures can not only push the ear wax deeper, but also they can perforate the ear drum. Consistent application of items to and into the ears has the potential to cause an external ear infection. If there is drainage from the ear, fever, constant severe pain or worsening hearing loss occur, consult a doctor.
