One day, young Kashif was playing when his mother called him. At first, he ignored her voice, but when she raised her tone, he rushed over with an innocent smile. His mother scolded him for not listening, and he quickly replied, “Mom, I hear everything louder now.” Shocked, she took him to the doctor, who discovered a simple problem: his ears were blocked with earwax.

What Exactly Is Earwax?

Earwax, though rarely discussed (kind of like foot odor), is completely natural. It forms inside the ear canal as a protective substance. While people often see it as “dirty,” earwax actually has a purpose. It keeps dust, dirt, and even small insects from entering deeper into the ear and damaging the eardrum. It also prevents dryness, itching, and helps water flow out quickly when it enters during a shower or swim.

Earwax forms naturally from glands in the ear canal. As skin cells grow, the wax slowly moves outward. Sometimes it dries up and falls out on its own. However, if earwax builds up too much, it can cause hearing problems—even temporary deafness. Kids may face difficulties in school, while many elderly people blame age for hearing loss when, in fact, earwax is the culprit.

Unsafe Ways People Clean Their Ears

Most people use cotton swabs, matchsticks, hairpins, or even nails to dig out earwax. While this may seem effective, it usually pushes the wax deeper, leading to scratches, infection, or even damage to the eardrum. In some cases, it worsens the problem instead of solving it.

The Right Way to Clean Ears

The safest way is to use cotton buds gently on the outer ear canal or simply wipe with a damp cloth. Earwax generally moves out naturally, so forcing objects inside isn’t needed. Doctors can also safely remove hardened wax using proper tools.

Some home remedies include softening the wax with warm oils like olive oil, sesame oil, or mustard oil. A few drops before bedtime can loosen hardened wax, which later comes out on its own. A mix of glycerin and a pinch of baking soda also helps soften stubborn earwax.

Another method is rinsing with lukewarm water using a syringe or letting steam loosen it, followed by gentle cleaning. Herbal oils made from garlic and neem leaves are also known to keep ears free from infection while softening wax.

When to See a Doctor

If you have pain, constant itching, discharge, or difficulty hearing even after trying home remedies, it’s time to consult a doctor. Professional cleaning is safe and prevents permanent damage.

Final Thoughts

Ears are not just for holding glasses or earrings—they connect us to the world of sound. Protecting them is essential. Earwax isn’t your enemy; it’s a natural guard for your ears. But when it builds up too much, deal with it carefully, and never ignore medical advice.

FAQs About Earwax

1. Is earwax harmful?

No, earwax is natural and protects the ear. It only becomes harmful if it builds up too much and blocks hearing.

2. How often should I clean my ears?

Most people don’t need frequent cleaning because earwax moves out on its own. Cleaning once in a while is enough.

3. Can earwax cause hearing loss?

Yes, if too much wax collects, it can block sound and cause temporary hearing loss. Luckily, it’s easily treatable.

4. What’s the safest home remedy for earwax?

A few drops of warm olive oil or sesame oil can soften earwax, making it easier for it to come out naturally.

5. When should I see a doctor for earwax?

If you have pain, discharge, dizziness, or persistent hearing problems, don’t try home fixes—consult a doctor.