The doctor explains how to avoid the accumulation of this type of secretion which damages hearing
The presence of earwax is a natural part of the human ear’s defense system. Therefore, under normal conditions, it does not pose a health hazard. However, trying to remove it with homemade solutions can cause more serious problems. Therefore, the otolaryngologist Bruna Assis, of the Paulista Hospital – a point of reference in ear, nose and throat health – clarifies the main myths and truths about earwax. Watch!
1. Earwax is a bad sign
Myth. Wax is a beneficial substance, produced by the skin of the ear canal, which helps noise canceling headphones and contains substances with antibacterial properties.
2. Wax should be removed periodically with flexible swabs
Myth. According to the otolaryngologist, the ear has its own mechanisms that allow the slow and periodic expulsion of excess earwax. The use of flexible rods and similar compromises the functioning of these mechanisms, favoring the accumulation and compaction of wax in the ear canal, which can cause damage to the skin of the canal and the eardrum, and even hearing loss.
“In cases where there is excess earwax, damaging hearing and causing discomfort, the patient must contact an ENT specialist to have it removed using appropriate tools and techniques, after a correct evaluation,” explains the specialist.
3. Earwax buildup can temporarily damage your hearing
REAL. The most common is wax buildup, not overproduction of the substance. In these cases the patient feels a sensation of closed ears, with consequent reduction and muffling of hearing, which causes considerable discomfort. According to the doctor, in some cases itching and pain can be associated, generally of mild intensity. In others, they may be associated with inflammation of the ear canal.
4. Wax production depends on several factors
REAL. Production depends on factors such as skin conditions, fever, local irritations and even the state of emotional of the patient. Immersion in the sea, swimming pools and lakes does not affect the production of earwax, but can cause a sensation of blocked ears, which leads to a significant increase in the demand for ENT care during the summer period.
5. Water does not affect the condition of earwax
Myth. Water entry can displace earwax already present in the ear canal, causing it to become blocked. Likewise, the mere presence of water can generate a sensation of blockage in the ear. It is usually short-lived and improves after evaporation or natural drainage of water.
In these cases, turning your head with the affected ear downwards and pulling it back slightly can help the water drain. If the sensation of auditory obstruction persists even after this maneuver and does not improve after a few hours, one should suspect the presence of impacted earwax and also other conditions such as inflammation of the ear canal, if it is also present pain or itching. Therefore, the patient should seek help for appropriate treatment.
6. Using headphones can be harmful to earwax
REAL. The use of headphones Those of the intra-auricular type, i.e. those that penetrate the ear canal, can be harmful, as they “push” the earwax inside, causing an accumulation of the substance. According to the doctor, these are the main precautions regarding headphones:
- Choose headphones that do not penetrate the ear canal, such as those that insert into the turbinate cartilage, those that rest behind the ear and those that cover the ear;
- Periodically clean the earphones with alcohol after use to avoid infection;
- Choose the headphone model that is most comfortable for you. If a particular model causes persistent pain, avoid using it and seek help from an ENT specialist;
- Regardless of the headphone model, excessively high volume and prolonged exposure to sound should be avoided, as high and prolonged sound intensities very close to the hearing organ can cause injuries such as hearing loss and tinnitus, which may be irreversible.
7. In most cases, treatment for excess wax is painless
REAL. Earwax removal is a quick, painless procedure in most cases and provides immediate relief from symptoms. The doctor will detect the cause of the sensations reported by the patient and will proceed to remove them, if present in excess. In this case, the doctor can use the following techniques and tools, depending on each patient:
- Irrigation (washing) with clean water at body temperature, using syringes or automatic showers;
- Aspirate the wax with a fine suction probe;
- Mechanical wax removal with a gentle curette.
In some cases, when the earwax is very petrified or impacted, it may be necessary to prescribe ear drops to “soften” the residue, a few days before the operation, in order to facilitate its removal.
By Alessio Venturelli
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
