How do we get ear wax?
Ear wax comes from the dirt and debris collected in the ears.
Ear wax is produced by the glands in the ear canal to protect the skin and trap dirt and debris.
Ear wax is also known as cerumin.
Excess cerumin can accumulate and harden, causing blockages that can lead to hearing problems or discomfort.
This can happen due to hereditary, the use of hearing aids, or attempts to clean the ear canal with cotton swabs or other objects.
Should we clean our ears regularly?
The ears are self-cleaning and the natural production of cerumin helps to remove dirt and debris.
It is not necessary to clean the earwax regularly, as the body will naturally remove excess cerumin.
Over-cleaning the ears or using cotton swabs or other objects to remove ear wax can actually push it further into the ear canal and make blockages worse.
If earwax is causing discomfort, hearing problems, or an ear infection, it can be safely removed by a healthcare provider.
If you are experiencing symptoms, it is best to consult with a doctor who can advise you on the best course of action.
In general, it is best to avoid cleaning the ear wax unless there is a specific need or as directed by a doctor.
Does everyone have the same kind of wax? Which wax do you have in your ears?
No, not everyone has the same kind of ear wax.
The type of earwax a person has is determined by their genetics and is classified into two main types namely, wet and dry.
Wet ear wax is soft and sticky, while dry ear wax is flaky and powdery.
People of African and East Asian descent tend to have a higher proportion of dry earwax, while those of European descent tend to have more of the wet type.
The type of ear wax a person has does not impact their health, but it can affect how easily it builds up and causes blockages in the ear canal.