Removing ear wax build up can be quite an easy process, if you know what you’re doing. Discover all about it, and do it right away!
This substance is made up of oils, but it is also made up of keratinocytes which are dead epithelial cells.
The wax is synthesized in the external auditory canal by specialized glands in the area. As a general rule, its composition includes oils, but it is also made up of keratinocytes. These are dead epithelial cells, which may also contain other chemicals.
On the other hand, these glands add certain peptides (amino acids) and lysozyme (a highly specialized enzyme or protein) to the wax. Both compounds have an antibacterial nature, that is, they prevent the growth or development of possible infections of bacterial origin that could damage the skin that forms the inside of the ear canal.
What is earwax for?
Wax or earwax protects the eardrum from the outside world. In this way, it is able to block dust, foreign agents and dirt that have entered this duct.
In addition to its antibacterial function, it also prevents the invasion of fungi inside the ears. Its smell is especially annoying to insects, which could otherwise get into this cavity. Due to its greasy texture, it acts as a lubricant, as it prevents the skin from drying out and even cracking.
Little by little unusual cells within the external ear canal push or pull the wax or earwax out. Finally, this compound along with all foreign bodies are expelled to the external environment through the ear.
You often do this task with traditional washing, but other types of movements also help. For example, activities that involve the lower jaw (talking, eating, drinking etc.).
Without this important natural movement, the dead cells in this area would accumulate, producing serious consequences.
Formation of wax plugs or build up
Sometimes the wax or cerumen can become hardened in the outermost part of the ear canal.
Currently, we know that certain factors or habits can favor its appearance. For example, the use of hearing aids or other hearing devices, the use of cotton buds or the excess washing of the area.
On the other hand, certain patients have a natural overproduction of wax that is genetic in nature. At present, the causes of this alteration are unknown.
Symptoms of wax plug formation
Normally, patients tend to suffer from a series of signs or disorders that may be related to this condition. Among the most common symptoms, you will notice:
- Pain in the ears: these are low intensity discomfort and are located inside the ear, where the accumulation of earwax has occurred.
- Autophony: refers to the situation in which the patient is able to hear his own voice internally.
- A feeling of fullness or plugging in the ear.
- Ringing or annoying noises in the ear: In the most severe clinical cases, subjects may experience dizziness or a sensation of vertigo as a result of them.
- Partial hearing loss that can worsen over time: it is the most characteristic symptom of this disorder.
- Fever: which can vary in severity.
Removing ear wax build up
The most effective treatment is removal of the plug. It is necessary to do it with care and properly lubricating the external auditory canal to avoid damaging the walls of the ear.
The patient will immediately notice an improvement. In some cases of hearing loss (conduction deafness) there can be a complete reversal with the removal of the plug. In addition, you will stop feeling pressure in the ear canal and will perceive sounds more clearly.
Prevention of the development of wax plugs
The most effective measure when it comes to preventing the formation of plugs is to maintain proper ear hygiene. The use of swabs favors the formation of plugs, so doctors do not recommend them. It is better to use sprays that break down the earwax without putting pressure on the external auditory canal.
Also, it is important to go to the doctor whenever you need to check if there are plugs or not. You must never forget to perform a complete wash that includes cleaning the ear cartilage. In this way, the ears will remain free of impurities. Therefore, before you do anything, make sure you visit your doctor first.
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