Earwax: Should You Clean It or Leave It Alone?

Fast Facts

• Earwax keeps dirt, bacteria and irritation out of the ear.
• Most ears clear themselves of excess wax.
• Cotton buds can push wax deeper in and may harm the ear.
• If you have too much wax it might obstruct your ears and cause itching, discomfort or ringing.
• If the symptoms are caused by earwax, it may need to be removed by a healthcare expert.

Introduction

It is normal to have earwax. It protects your ears. In most cases, it is unnecessary to delete. Usually, your ears push extra wax to the outer ear. This may be gently cleansed. Wax buildup may be an issue and so can trying to remove it with cotton buds or other implements.

Why Do We Have Earwax?

Earwax is useful:

• Dust and debris traps
• Shield from germs
• Maintain moisture in the ear canal
• Avoid Skin Irritation

Do you need to clean your ears?

Generally no.

If you are asymptomatic, no cleaning inside the ear canal is needed. Just wipe the outer ear with a soft, damp cloth.

Why you shouldn’t use cotton buds

Cotton buds and other items can:

• Melt wax
• Annoy the ear canal
• Induce infection
• Damage to the eardrum

Do not put hairpins, keys, matchsticks or other such objects in your ears.

When does earwax cause problems?

Too much wax can block the ear canal and cause:

• Hearing loss or muffled hearing
• Ear fullness or blockage
• Pruritus
• Ear pain
• Ringing in the ears
• Sometimes vertigo

These symptoms are not necessarily wax-related.

Who Is More Likely To Get Wax Build-Up?

You’re more susceptible to earwax blockage if you:

• Regular use of cotton buds or earplugs
• Use hearing aids
• Possess narrow ear canals
• Produce more earwax
• Have difficulty removing wax naturally

When Should You Visit an ENT Specialist?

You should see an ENT specialist if you have:

• Permanent hearing loss
• Ear pain or drainage
• Vertigo or tinnitus
• Recurrent wax occlusion
• Feeling stuck and not getting better

A specialist can examine the ear and safely remove the wax, if needed.

What are you able to do?

• Only clean the outer ear.
• Do not place objects in the ear canal.
• Do not try to remove hardened wax.
• Don’t ignore chronic ear symptoms.
• Possible blockage? Get professional advice.

Expert Insights

Earwax is a natural part of the defense system of your ear.” If it is not symptomatic do not touch it.

If wax is causing a blockage or change in hearing, an ENT specialist can check the ear and recommend safe removal if necessary.

Prof. Dr. M N Shankar

Key Points

• Earwax is a natural and protective substance.
• Most people don’t need their ears cleaned out.
• Cotton buds can push the wax deeper in or cause injury.
• Too much wax can interfere with your hearing and cause discomfort.
• If symptoms continue, get the advice of an ENT specialist.

About the Reviewer

Prof. Dr. M N Shankar

Book Your Appointment Today

Think you have too much earwax? Don’t attempt to dig it out yourself.

The specialists at MGM Healthcare will find out the reason behind your symptoms and offer safe and effective treatment.

Make an appointment with us.