Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a substance produced by the outer ear canal that serves as a natural defense against dirt, bacteria, and other debris.

Although it may seem gross or unnecessary, earwax actually plays an important role in protecting the ear from infection and damage. In addition, the characteristics of earwax can provide valuable clues about a person’s overall health.

What is Earwax?

Earwax is made up of a combination of sweat, dead skin cells, and wax-producing glands in the outer ear canal. It varies in color and consistency, depending on genetics, age, and environmental factors.

Normally, the body produces just enough earwax to keep the ear canal clean and healthy. However, some people produce too much earwax, which can cause blockages, pain, and even hearing loss.

The Different Types of Earwax

There are two main types of earwax: wet and dry. Wet earwax is typically yellow or brown in color and has a sticky, wet consistency. Dry earwax, on the other hand, is flaky and grayish-white in color.

The type of earwax a person produces is determined by genetics, with people of Asian and Native American descent more likely to have dry earwax than those of African or European descent.

Earwax Impaction

When too much earwax accumulates in the ear canal, it can lead to impaction, a condition in which the ear canal becomes blocked or narrowed.

Earwax impaction can cause a range of symptoms, including ear pain, hearing loss, dizziness, ringing in the ears, and even coughing or vomiting. It is more common in older adults, as well as people with ear canal deformities, hearing aids, or earplugs.

The Link Between Earwax and Health

Believe it or not, the condition and color of earwax can provide valuable insights into a person’s health. For example:.

Related Article The Color of Your Earwax: What It Tells About Your Health?

Yellow or Brown Earwax

Most people have yellow or brown earwax, which is generally considered healthy and normal. However, if the earwax appears dry, flaky, or crusty, it could be a sign of eczema or psoriasis.

Dark Brown or Black Earwax

Dark brown or black earwax can indicate that the person has been exposed to high levels of air pollution or dust. It could also be a sign of an ear infection or injury, especially if accompanied by pain, discharge, or hearing loss.

Grey Earwax

Grey earwax can indicate that the person has been exposed to high levels of stress. In addition, it could indicate that the person has a rare genetic disorder called keratosis obturans, which causes excess skin cells to build up in the ear canal.

White Earwax

White earwax is usually a sign of a genetic mutation that affects the gene responsible for producing cerumen. This type of earwax is most commonly found in people of East Asian descent.

Blood-Tinged Earwax

If the earwax is tinged with blood, it could be a sign of an ear injury or infection. It could also be a sign of a ruptured eardrum, which requires immediate medical attention.

Earwax Removal

If you suspect that you have earwax impaction, it is important to see a healthcare provider for earwax removal. Attempting to remove earwax yourself can cause injury to the ear canal or eardrum, and may worsen the impaction.

Your healthcare provider will be able to safely and effectively remove the earwax using specialized instruments or suction devices.

Conclusion

Earwax may seem like a strange or insignificant substance, but it actually tells us quite a bit about our health.

By paying attention to the color, consistency, and amount of earwax we produce, we can potentially detect health problems early on and seek appropriate treatment.