Did You Know That Earwax Has Its Benefits? 👂 Why You Should Never Remove Wax from Your Ears.
In a world where personal hygiene is paramount, maintaining cleanliness from head to toe is a common priority for many. Among the various aspects of personal hygiene, ear cleanliness often raises concerns, with earwax being perceived as a sign of uncleanliness. However, before hastily resorting to removing it, it’s imperative to recognize the invaluable role earwax plays in our health.
Earwax, and Why We Have It
Ear wax, medically known as cerumen, is far from being mere ‘waste’; it constitutes a vital component of our body’s natural defense system. Here are its key functions:
– Protection:Ear wax forms a protective barrier, shielding the ear canal from dust, bacteria, and foreign particles.
– Cleaning and Lubrication: Contrary to popular belief, earwax cleans and lubricates the ear canal, preventing dryness and itchiness.
– Antibacterial Properties: It contains natural antibacterial properties, warding off infections within the ear canal.
The Risks of Over-Cleaning Your Ear
While the temptation to maintain pristine ears may be strong, over-cleaning poses more harm than good:
– Impaction: Excessive cleaning can push wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to impaction and potential complications.
– Loss of Protection: Removing too much wax strips away the ear’s natural defense, making it susceptible to infections and damage.
– Ear Damage: Aggressive cleaning can cause cuts and abrasions, paving the way for infections and discomfort.
The Body’s Natural Process
Our bodies possess an innate mechanism to manage ear wax efficiently without external interference. The movement of our jaw aids in gradually expelling ear wax out of the canal, where it dries up and naturally falls out. This self-cleaning process obviates the need for manual removal in most cases.
Instances When Earwax Removal Is Necessary
Despite the body’s self-regulating mechanism, certain circumstances may warrant medical intervention:
– Excessive Buildup: Some individuals produce more wax or experience poor clearance, leading to blockages.
– Hearing Changes:Sudden hearing loss or persistent alterations necessitate professional evaluation.
– Discomfort or Pain: Any discomfort, pain, or sensation of fullness warrants professional attention.
In such cases, seeking healthcare assistance ensures safe removal of excess wax or treatment of underlying conditions without compromising ear health.
For routine maintenance, cleaning the outer ear with a damp cloth during a shower suffices. Avoid inserting foreign objects into the ear canal, as this may result in injury and infection. Over-the-counter ear drops are available to soften wax, facilitating its natural expulsion.
In conclusion, understanding the significance of earwax and its role in maintaining ear health underscores the importance of refraining from its indiscriminate removal.
Article By Suzy Nyongesa.