Ear health is an integral part of overall body health. One important aspect of maintaining ear health is ear care and hygiene, including the management of earwax. Earwax is a sticky, yellow-brown substance produced by glands in the outer ear canal.
Although often considered as dirt that needs to be cleaned, earwax actually has a very important protective function. However, if the amount is excessive or accumulates, earwax can cause hearing loss and other health problems. Therefore, it is important for us to understand the right way and time to clean earwax to maintain ear and hearing health.
What is Cerumen and Why is it Needed?
Earwax is made up of a mixture of oil and sweat gland secretions, dead skin cells, and dust or dirt particles from the environment. Its function is not only to coat and protect the walls of the ear canal, but also to maintain the moisture of the skin in the area and has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Some of the benefits of earwax for the ears include:
- Protection against infection : Cerumen contains enzymes and antibacterial compounds that help prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in the ear canal.
- Preventing the entry of foreign objects : With its sticky consistency, cerumen helps trap dust, pollen, and other foreign objects from entering deeper into the ear canal.
- Maintaining moisture : Cerumen coats the walls of the ear canal, helping to prevent dryness and irritation.
- Natural cleaning : Jaw movements during talking or chewing help move earwax from the inside to the outside of the ear, carrying dirt particles with it.
Problems That Arise Due to Earwax Buildup
Although earwax serves a protective function, excessive production or ineffective cleaning can lead to a buildup. When earwax hardens and blocks the ear canal, the condition is called earwax impaction . Some common symptoms of impaction include:
- Hearing is reduced or blocked
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Ear pain
- Mild dizziness or loss of balance
- Cough (due to reflex from the ear nerve)
Earwax buildup can worsen hearing conditions, especially in older adults who already have age-related hearing loss. In some cases, earwax impaction can even lead to an outer ear infection (otitis externa) if not treated promptly.
Common Mistakes in Cleaning Ears
One of the most common mistakes people make when cleaning their ears is using cotton buds. Although widely available and commonly used, cotton buds often push earwax deeper into the ear canal, causing buildup and impaction.
In addition, inserting sharp objects such as hair clips, metal cotton swabs, or even the tip of a pen into the ear is very risky to injure the ear canal or even tear the eardrum. This action can also disrupt the natural balance of microorganisms in the ear and trigger infections.
When and How to Safely Clean Earwax
In fact, most people do not need to routinely clean the inside of their ears because the ears have a natural cleaning mechanism. However, in some conditions, cleaning may be necessary, especially if there are symptoms of impaction.
Here is a guide to safe ear cleaning:
- Use gentle methods : Cleaning the outside of the ear with a soft towel or wet wipes is sufficient for most people.
- Earwax softening drops : Pharmacies sell oil-based ear drops (e.g. glycerin, olive oil) that can help soften the earwax so it comes out more easily.
- Ear irrigation : Under a doctor's supervision or using a safe irrigation device, the ear can be cleaned by gently spraying warm water.
- Consultation with an ENT doctor : If you are experiencing symptoms of ear disorders or have a history of ear problems, it is best to have your earwax removed by a medical professional.
Article written by dr. Ferry Herjanto, Sp. ENT-KL (Ear, Nose, Throat, Head and Neck Specialist, EMC Cikarang Hospital).