The Ins and Outs of Earwax
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It helps protect and clean your ears by trapping dirt, dust, and other particles, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. Normally, earwax moves to the ear opening naturally and falls out or is washed away.
When does earwax become a problem?
Sometimes, earwax can build up and cause issues, such as:
- Hearing Loss: A blockage can reduce hearing.
- Earache: Excess wax can lead to discomfort or pain.
- Tinnitus: A ringing or buzzing sound in the ear.
- Dizziness: Balance problems may occur.
If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to address the earwax buildup.
Safe Methods for Earwax Removal
It’s crucial to remove earwax safely to avoid damaging your ears. Despite common misconceptions, it is not recommended to insert cotton swabs or ear candles. Instead, try these safer methods of removing earwax buildup if necessary:
At-Home Management
- Over-the-Counter Ear Drops
- Warm Water “Flushing”
Professional Cleaning
Depending on the type and location of the wax, removal may be performed using:
- Instrumentation: A medical professional may use visual magnification along with medical-grade curettes, forceps, or other specialized tools to remove earwax.
- Irrigation: In some cases, excessive earwax can be safely removed using a controlled irrigation system such as the Earigator® system that we use at Aurora Audiology. This professional device delivers a gentle, temperature-controlled stream of water to help soften and flush cerumen from the ear canal while minimizing discomfort.
When to Seek Professional Help
If home remedies don’t alleviate the problem or if you experience severe symptoms, call 907-451-4327 or contact us online for an appointment. Our hearing professionals will be happy to assist you!