How Earwax Can Affect Your Hearing

Earwax—also known as cerumen—is often seen as a nuisance or something to avoid. But did you know that earwax can actually play an important role in protecting your ears? While earwax is necessary to keep your ears safe from dust, dirt, and bacteria, things can go awry when earwax builds up too much. When earwax accumulates or gets compacted, it can block your ear canal and interfere with hearing, leaving you with an uncomfortable and muffled sound. Let’s dive into why it’s important to manage earwax and what you can do to keep your hearing clear.

Your ears are designed to naturally clean themselves. As you move your jaw (chewing, speaking, etc.), earwax is slowly pushed out of the ear canal. However, several factors can disrupt this natural process:

• Overproduction of wax: Some people produce more earwax than others, leading to buildup.
• Improper cleaning: Using cotton swabs or other objects can push earwax further into the ear canal, causing blockages.
• Age: As we get older, earwax can become drier and harder, making it harder for it to leave the ear on its own.
• Ear conditions: People with narrow or unusually shaped ear canals may experience more frequent blockages.

If you have a buildup of earwax, you might notice the following symptoms:

• Muffled hearing or a feeling of fullness in the ear.
• Earache or a sensation of pressure.
• Itching or irritation inside the ear.
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

When earwax accumulates and forms a blockage, sound waves can’t travel to the eardrum properly, resulting in temporary hearing loss. The good news is, this kind of hearing loss is usually reversible with proper treatment.

If you ignore a buildup of earwax, you may begin to notice a decrease in your ability to hear high-pitched sounds, and over time, the problem can worsen. If left untreated, earwax blockages can even lead to more serious issues like ear infections or permanent hearing damage.

It’s important to clean your ears carefully to avoid pushing the wax further in. Here’s how you can safely manage earwax buildup:

• Use over-the-counter ear drops: These can soften earwax, allowing it to naturally work its way out.
• Consult a professional: If you suspect you have a large buildup or blockage, it’s best to see an ear specialist who can remove it safely.
• Use Cleers Camera Ear Cleaner: With the help of a built-in camera, the Cleers Camera Ear Cleaner allows you to see inside your ear and gently clean out excess wax, ensuring a safe and effective process without the risk of pushing the wax deeper.

If you have persistent pain, hearing loss, or ringing in your ears despite cleaning efforts, it’s important to consult an ear care professional. They can examine your ear canal and remove any stubborn wax buildup without causing harm.

Earwax is an essential part of your ear’s health, but too much of it can lead to hearing problems. By proactively managing your ear hygiene with the right tools and practices, you can ensure that your ears stay clear and your hearing stays sharp. Remember, while earwax may seem like a small issue, it plays a big role in your ear health—so don't ignore the signs!