Earwax, also known as cerumen, has gotten a bad rap due to its unsightly color and unpleasant odor, and parents mistakenly associate the presence of earwax in their child's ear as a sign of poor hygiene. However, according to StJohnProvidence.org, earwax performs a very important function in keeping the ears clean and healthy by trapping dust, dirt and foreign particles that could damage the eardrum.
Cause of Earwax Buildup
According to BabyCenter.com, earwax is secreted by oil and sweat glands called the ceruminous glands. Under normal conditions, the earwax builds up and dries out, moving to the outer ear, then washes away. During this process, the earwax works as a sticky vacuum cleaner, trapping and removing foreign debris. When the production of earwax accumulates faster than the ear can get rid of it, buildup occurs.
The Wrong Way for Removal
Many parents make the mistake of trying to remove every last bit of earwax from their child's ears by using cotton swabs or sometimes even paperclips. According to StJohnProvidence.org, this can make the situation worse by pushing the wax against the eardrum, forming a hardened plug that can affect the child's hearing. The plug may also cause inflammation or an infection.
What to Do
If you decide there is too much wax buildup in your child's ear, StJohnProvidence.org says the safest and most effective method for removal is to use a wet washcloth wrapped around your index finger. Using a gentle circular motion, stay in the outermost area of the ear canal. If there still seems to be too much earwax in your child's ears, there are several over-the-counter options available to you such as earwax removers, ear drops and mineral oil to soften the wax.
Preventing Earwax Buildup
According to BabyCenter.com, the best way to avoid earwax buildup is to keep your child hydrated. Earwax becomes more dense when your child is dehydrated, so make sure he drinks plenty of water every day.
When to See the Doctor
StJohnProvidence.org recommends taking your child to the doctor if she has sharp pain in the ear with or without a fever, loss of hearing in one ear, ringing of the ears or any sort of discharge from the ears that is white, yellow or bloody.
