Earwax is a topic many people prefer to avoid, however, the gooey substance plays an important role for our ears and hearing. In truth, earwax can actually tell us a fair amount about a person
Facts About Earwax
To start, it is helpful to have a true understanding of what, exactly, earwax is. In short, earwax (scientific name cerumen) is a combination of skin cells from the inner ear (sebum) and secretions from glands found in the outer ear canal. Now that we know what it is made out of, let’s take a look at some interesting tidbits about the substance:
- Earwax comes in two types. There are two different types of earwax: wet and dry. The type of earwax you have will depend on your genetic makeup. In most cases, individuals of East Asia and Native American descent will have dry earwax. The majority of people from other regions is actually wet.
- Earwax can be used to help diagnose specific diseases. Earwax is used to identify at least two odor-producing metabolic diseases – maple syrup urine disease and alkaptonuria. The odors found in earwax is used to tell us what a person has eaten, where they have been, and whether or not they are suffering from either of the two above mentioned diseases. Earwax is oftentimes used to diagnose these diseases before using traditional blood and urine analysis.
- Earwax helps keep your ears from itching. One of the most practical functions of earwax is that it helps to lubricate the ears, keeping them from feeling itchy or dry.
- Earwax helps keep your ears clean. While many people (mistakenly) believe that earwax should be removed on a regular basis, the waxy buildup is actually what prevent dirt, dust, and other environmental substances from trying to enter your ear. With the help earwax, your ear will actually clean itself out. With this, it is important to note that using a cotton swab to clear out the earwax may actually do more harm than good. A general rule of thumb is to simply leave your earwax alone, unless you are experiencing excess earwax. In the event of this, please contact your Dallas ENT doctor.
- Stress or fear may actually increase earwax production. When a person is stressed out or afraid, they may actually sweat more as well as have an increase in earwax production. The glands found in the ear that work to secrete wax are actually the glands that produce your smelliest sweat.
The above facts about earwax are designed to give you a deeper understanding of the waxy substance.
Our doctors strongly believe in the importance of educating people about the important role of earwax, as well as personal hygiene tips to help ensure the sticky substance is doing its job.
If you have any questions about this information or would like to set up an appointment with one of our ENT doctors in Dallas, Fort Worth or Arlington, please contact our clinic today.