Ceruminous glands are a type of specialized sweat gland. These glands are primarily located within the ear canal. They play a specific role in maintaining ear health.
Precise Location within the Ear
Ceruminous glands are situated within the external auditory canal, which is the passage leading from the outer ear to the eardrum. They are not found throughout the entire canal but are concentrated in its outer, cartilaginous portion. This area constitutes the outer one-third to one-half of the ear canal’s total length.
These glands are exocrine glands, meaning they secrete substances onto an epithelial surface. They often open directly onto the skin surface or join with sebaceous glands and then open into hair follicles. The inner, bony two-thirds of the ear canal lack ceruminous glands and hair.
Earwax Production and Its Role
Ceruminous glands work in conjunction with sebaceous glands to produce cerumen, commonly known as earwax. Earwax is a complex mixture, primarily consisting of shed skin cells (about 60% keratin), along with various lipids and other compounds. The specific composition can vary between individuals due to genetic factors, leading to different types of earwax, such as wet or dry.
Earwax serves multiple protective functions. It acts as a natural lubricant, helping to keep the delicate skin of the ear canal supple and preventing dryness. Its sticky texture effectively traps dust, debris, and other foreign particles, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. Earwax also possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Managing Earwax and Related Concerns
While earwax is a natural and beneficial substance, issues can arise if it accumulates excessively. This buildup, known as impaction, can occur due to overproduction of wax, improper cleaning methods, or the ear canal’s natural anatomy. Symptoms of impacted earwax can include hearing loss, a feeling of fullness in the ear, earache, or ringing in the ears.
It is not recommended to clean the ear canal with cotton swabs or other objects. Such actions often push earwax deeper into the canal, potentially leading to impaction or even damaging the eardrum. The ear has a natural self-cleaning mechanism where old wax migrates out of the canal on its own. If earwax buildup becomes problematic, at-home remedies like over-the-counter ear drops containing hydrogen peroxide or mineral oil can help soften the wax. For persistent or severe impaction, seeking professional medical attention for removal is advised.