Do you feel a sudden discomfort in your ears? Do your ears feel blocked? Can you barely hear those around you? It may be that ear wax is building up in your ear canal and causing these symptoms, as well as pain and itching. The condition is pretty common, but if it’s not treated on time, it can cause complications. What is ear wax, what causes it and what are the symptoms of excessive buildup? Are there safe ways to get rid of it without going to the doctor? Keep reading to learn the answers to your questions.
What is an Ear Wax Build-Up?
Ear wax, medically known as cerumen, is a yellowish waxy substance in the ears secreted by the glands in the ear canal. The wax serves to protect the ear from dust, dirt, and bacteria which can cause infections. Because of this, ear wax shouldn’t be removed regularly, as this will leave the eardrums exposed. A small amount is normal and healthy, but if it’s not doing its job anymore or building up too much, it might be time to get rid of some.
What Causes an Ear Wax Build-Up?
As stated earlier, ear wax is produced by the body to protect the outer and inner ears against dust, germ, and small objects that may enter the ear canals. When the glands secrete too much wax, it can pile up and harden. Cleaning this out with q-tips will only push the wax further into the ear and cause negative side effects or more serious complications.
Symptoms of an Ear Wax Build-Up
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you might be suffering from an ear canal blockage:
-Sudden pain in the ear
-Diminished hearing capacity
-A discharge of a fluid-like substance in the inner ear
-A ringing sound in the ear
-Vertigo or dizziness
-A blockage sensation in the ear
-An unbearable itching in the ear
If you feel these symptoms, it’s best to clean your ears immediately to avoid any complications. Furthermore, if you think your condition has worsened or is already too bad to treat yourself, ask your doctor for advice.
Safe Ways to Remove Ear Wax
Ear wax is very common, but too much of it can cause complications. The good news is that you don’t necessarily need to go to a doctor to treat the condition. You can do it all yourself with some safe remedies for home removal, including:
Baby Oil. Baby oil helps smooth the ear wax, making it easier to get out of the ear.
Warm Water. The gentle force of the water will help dislodge the wax, which makes it easier to remove.
Salt Water. Some say that this is one of the best ways to remove ear wax. The method helps smooth the wax, making it easier to remove.
Rubbing Alcohol and Vinegar. This age-old remedy is a perfect solution for dissolving ear wax. The alcohol will be the drying agent while the vinegar serves as the bacteria and fungi fighter.
Baking Soda. Baking soda is beneficial in removing excess ear wax, and it also helps clean the ear!
Hydrogen Peroxide. This is one of the best home remedies for removing ear wax, because it has an effervescent property which easily removes both the ear wax and its debris.
Conclusion
An ear wax build-up can be annoying, but it can also lead to some complications. It’s best to treat it with some home remedies. Incorporating some of the above into your daily routines shouldn’t take up too much of your time. If you’re finding it hard to do it yourself, though, don’t hesitate to consult a professional.
