Brain and ENT Clinic – Dr Lalit Mahajan In Nagpur & Dr Rachna Gangwani Mahajan In Nagpur

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Ear Wax

Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a waxy substance produced by the ceruminous glands in the ear canal. These glands are specialized sweat glands located in the skin of the ear canal, and their primary function is to protect and lubricate the ear. Ear wax helps to prevent the ears from drying out, and it also has antimicrobial properties that can help protect the ear canal from infections.
Ear wax is composed of a mixture of secretions from the ceruminous glands, dead skin cells, and hair. It starts as a soft, yellowish wax and gradually hardens over time, forming a protective barrier. The wax typically migrates from the deeper parts of the ear canal to the opening, where it eventually dries up and falls out or is washed away during activities like bathing.

Symptoms of Ear Wax

  1. Earache: Pain or discomfort in the ear can be a symptom of ear wax impaction.

  2. Hearing loss: A partial blockage of the ear canal by ear wax can lead to decreased hearing or a sense of fullness in the ear.

  3. Tinnitus: Ringing, buzzing, or other noises in the ear may be associated with ear wax buildup.

  4. Dizziness or vertigo: In some cases, excessive ear wax can affect the balance organs in the inner ear, leading to dizziness or a spinning sensation.

  5. Itching or drainage: Ear wax impaction may cause itching in the ear, and in some cases, there may be drainage or discharge.

  6. Cough: Rarely, when ear wax stimulates the ear canal’s branch of the vagus nerve, it can lead to a reflex that causes coughing.

Treatment / Methods for Managing Ear Wax

  1. Ear Drops:

    • Over-the-counter ear drops are available to soften and loosen ear wax. These drops often contain mineral oil, hydrogen peroxide, or other ingredients designed to break down the wax.

  2. Olive Oil:

    • Warm olive oil can be used as a natural remedy to soften ear wax. Tilt your head to the side, and using an eyedropper, instill a few drops of lukewarm olive oil into the affected ear. Stay in that position for a few minutes to allow the oil to penetrate, and then drain the oil and softened wax by tilting your head in the opposite direction.

  3. Hydrogen Peroxide:

    • A mixture of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water can be used to soften ear wax. Lie down on your side, and using an eyedropper, instill a few drops into the ear. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before draining it by tilting your head.

  4. Ear Irrigation:

    • Ear irrigation involves using a bulb syringe filled with warm water to gently flush out the ear wax. This method is often performed by a healthcare professional.

  5. Manual Removal:

    • In some cases, a healthcare provider may manually remove the ear wax using specialized tools. This is typically done if other methods are ineffective or if there is a significant blockage.