Tinnitus is the medical term for experiencing sounds in your ears or head when no external sound is present. These sounds can manifest as ringing, buzzing, roaring, clicking, or hissing. Earwax is a naturally occurring substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It traps dust, dirt, and debris, lubricates the ear canal, and prevents dryness and irritation. Earwax also contains antibacterial properties, helping to prevent infections.
The Link Between Earwax and Tinnitus
Excessive earwax buildup can contribute to tinnitus. This occurs when accumulated wax obstructs the ear canal, interfering with sound transmission to the inner ear. The blockage can exert pressure on the eardrum, preventing it from vibrating properly. This disruption can lead the brain to interpret altered sound signals as internal noises.
The pressure from impacted wax can also irritate nerve cells within the middle and inner ear. This irritation generates abnormal signals that the brain perceives as tinnitus. Tinnitus caused by earwax is often temporary and resolves once the excess wax is safely removed.
Identifying Symptoms and Other Tinnitus Triggers
When earwax buildup causes tinnitus, individuals may experience accompanying symptoms. These can include fullness or pressure in the ear, muffled hearing, or an earache. Dizziness or balance issues may also occur. If these symptoms appear alongside ringing or buzzing, earwax could be a contributing factor.
Tinnitus has many other potential causes. These include exposure to loud noise, which can damage the hair cells in the inner ear. Age-related hearing loss is another frequent cause, as the number of nerve fibers in the ears declines with age. Certain medications, head or neck injuries, and conditions affecting the circulatory system or inner ear can also lead to tinnitus.
Diagnosis and Safe Earwax Removal
Diagnosis involves a healthcare professional visually inspecting the ear canal, often using an otoscope, a lighted instrument for clear viewing. Professional diagnosis is important to rule out other potential causes of tinnitus and to ensure safe removal.
Medical professionals use several safe methods for earwax removal. These include irrigation, where warm water flushes the ear canal to dislodge wax. Another method is manual removal using a curet or forceps. Microsuction is also a technique, involving a tiny vacuum to suction wax from the ear canal. Attempting home remedies like cotton swabs, ear candles, or sharp objects can be risky, pushing wax deeper, causing ear canal injury, or even perforating the eardrum.
Preventing Earwax Buildup
Preventing excessive earwax buildup involves simple practices and avoiding certain habits. Avoid inserting cotton swabs or other objects into the ear canal, as these can push wax deeper and compact it. Such actions can also stimulate glands to produce more earwax. Instead, clean only the outer part of the ear with a damp cloth.
For individuals prone to excessive wax, ear drops containing mineral oil, baby oil, or hydrogen peroxide solutions can help soften the wax, allowing it to migrate out of the ear. These softening agents should be used sparingly and according to instructions, for a few days to loosen the wax. Consulting a doctor before using ear drops is advisable, especially if there is a history of ear problems.