Ear Wax Explained
Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It plays an important role in keeping the ears healthy by protecting the ear canal from dust, dirt, bacteria, and other foreign particles.
Ear wax also helps to keep the skin inside the ear moisturised and prevents dryness and irritation. In most cases, ear wax moves naturally out of the ear on its own and does not cause any problems.
Why Do We Have Ear Wax?
Ear wax is your ear’s natural defence system. It helps to:
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Trap dust, debris, and bacteria before they reach the eardrum
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Protect the delicate skin of the ear canal
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Reduce the risk of ear infections
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Keep the ear canal lubricated
Jaw movement from talking and chewing usually helps ear wax move towards the outer ear, where it dries and falls away naturally.
Why Does Ear Wax Build Up?
Sometimes ear wax does not clear on its own and can become impacted, leading to a build-up of ear wax. This can happen for several reasons, including:
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Using cotton buds or other objects in the ears, which push wax deeper
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Naturally narrow or curved ear canals
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Hairy ear canals
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Producing excessive amounts of ear wax
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Wearing hearing aids, earplugs, or headphones regularly
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Age-related changes that cause ear wax to become drier and harder
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Ear wax build-up is common and does not mean poor ear hygiene.
Your Ears, Our Care
Symptoms of Ear Wax Build-Up
A build-up of ear wax can cause a range of symptoms, including:
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Reduced or muffled hearing
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Earache or discomfort
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A feeling of fullness or blockage in the ear
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Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
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Dizziness or balance issues
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Itchiness in the ear
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Coughing caused by stimulation of the ear canal
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important not to try to remove the wax yourself, as this can make the problem worse.
When to Seek Professional Ear Care
If symptoms persist or affect your hearing or daily life, professional ear wax removal is recommended. A trained ear care specialist can safely assess your ears and remove wax using approved methods, reducing the risk of injury or infection.
