Kimberly Gill, AuD

Why do I have so much ear wax?

A:Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the ceruminous glands in the ear canal. The primary purpose of earwax is to lubricate and protect the ear canal, as well as to trap dust and debris, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. It has antimicrobial properties that help prevent infections in the ear. The amount of earwax produced varies among individuals, and some people naturally produce more earwax than others. Several factors contribute to the production of earwax:

1. Genetics: The amount and type of earwax produced can be influenced by genetics. People with a family history of excessive earwax production may also experience it themselves.

2. Age: The consistency of earwax may change with age. In some cases, older individuals may produce drier or harder earwax.

3. Race and Ethnicity: There can be variations in earwax characteristics based on a person's racial or ethnic background. For example, East Asians and Native Americans are more likely to have dry and flaky earwax, while Caucasians and Africans tend to have wetter and stickier earwax.

4. Jaw Movement: Chewing and talking can help move earwax out of the ear canal. People who chew more may naturally have a more efficient self-cleaning process.

5. Use of Cotton Swabs: Inserting cotton swabs or other objects into the ear canal can push earwax deeper and disrupt the natural process of wax migration out of the ear. This can lead to the accumulation of earwax and potential blockages.

6. Ear Canal Shape: The shape and size of the ear canal can vary among individuals, influencing how easily earwax is expelled from the ear.

7. It's important to note that earwax is generally a selfregulating system, and the ears are designed to clean themselves Attempting to clean the ears with cotton swabs or other objects can push wax deeper, leading to impaction and potential complications.

8. If you are experiencing symptoms of earwax blockage, such as hearing loss, ear pain, or tinnitus, it's recommended to seek professional medical advice. A healthcare provider or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist can safely remove excess earwax using appropriate methods. Call the office today to make an appointment to get your ears cleaned. Life sounds great!

The Hearing Center Advanced Audiology

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