Do I have excess ear wax that needs removed?
Did you know that Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a completely natural and essential substance produced by your body to protect your ears. Although many people think of it as something dirty that should be removed, ear wax actually plays a crucial role in maintaining ear health. Understanding how it forms, why it sometimes builds up, and when to seek professional help can prevent discomfort and complications.
How ear wax is produced?
Ear wax is created in the outer portion of the ear canal by specialised glands that produce a mixture of oils, sweat, and shed skin cells. This sticky substance traps dust, bacteria, and other particles before they can reach the delicate eardrum. It also keeps the skin of the ear canal moisturised, preventing dryness and irritation. In short, ear wax acts as both a protective barrier and a natural cleaning system.
Why we need ear wax
Cerumen has antimicrobial properties, meaning it helps prevent infections by inhibiting bacterial and fungal growth. It also provides lubrication, which reduces itching and discomfort inside the ear canal. Without ear wax, the ear would be more vulnerable to irritation, infection, and injury.
Natural ear cleaning: the role of tiny hairs
The outer third of the ear canal contains tiny hairs and a mechanism of skin migration that slowly moves ear wax outward toward the ear opening.
But also and this part is important: Everyday jaw movements—like talking and chewing—assist this process. Once the wax reaches the entrance of the ear, it typically dries up and falls out naturally.
However, the deeper part of the ear canal does not contain these hairs or the same efficient migration system. If wax is pushed into this deeper region, it may remain there and gradually compact, leading to blockage (impaction). This is why inserting objects into the ear is strongly discouraged.
Why ear wax builds up
Several common factors can interfere with the ear’s natural cleaning process:
Earbuds and headphones: These can push wax deeper into the canal and prevent it from exiting naturally.
Cotton buds (Q-tips): Rather than removing wax, they often push it further inward, increasing the risk of impaction.
Hearing aids or earplugs: Devices that sit in the ear canal can block normal wax migration and stimulate increased production.
Narrow or curved ear canals: Some people are simply more prone to buildup because wax has less room to move outward.
Symptoms of wax buildup can include muffled hearing, ear fullness, ringing (tinnitus), dizziness, or discomfort.
Professional ear wax removal
If wax becomes impacted, professional removal is the safest solution. At Vitalis Health, we use gentle microsuction techniques to precisely remove wax under direct visual guidance. If needed, we can also use warm water irrigation to complete the process. One of the advantages of our approach is that we can show you clear photos and even video footage of your ear canal before and after treatment, so you can see the results for yourself.
If an infection or inflammation is present, our doctors are able to assess the condition and provide appropriate medical treatment, ensuring comprehensive care in one visit.
Healthy ears contribute to overall wellbeing, comfort, and hearing clarity. If you are experiencing symptoms of ear wax buildup, or simply want reassurance, don’t wait. Book online today to take advantage of our winter offer and enjoy clearer hearing.