Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a product that is naturally formed by small glands found only in the outer one third of the ear canals. This sticky substance that so many people find disgusting or dirty actually plays a very important role in keeping the ear healthy. Earwax coats the fragile skin of the ear canal where it acts as a temporary water and insect repellent. The wax traps dirt, tiny bits of plant material, small insects, and bacteria. Old earwax is constantly being transported to the opening of the ear canal where it dries, flakes, and falls out. Wax will naturally and slowly work its way out of the ear carrying any debris that it has trapped with it. Thus, your ear canals are actually self-cleaning and your good intention to help clean them may actually result in more harm than good.

If you feel the need to clean your ears, use a washcloth to wipe the outer ear and the opening of the ear canal. DO NOT probe the ear with a cotton swab or bobby pin. This will not remove wax. It will only pack the wax further down into the canal where it can become trapped creating a complete blockage. You may also damage the eardrum if you insert the swab too deeply.  A swab may scratch the delicate skin of the ear canal, creating a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and risk of potential infection.

Earwax is only problematic if it builds up. If it is produced too fast, or if the ear canals are narrow and at an abnormal angle, making it difficult for the wax to clear in a timely manner. You may have a build up of wax if you notice any of the following symptoms: difficulty hearing, pain in your ears, ringing in you ears, feeling like your ears are "stopped up", or temporary hearing loss after swimming or showering. Earwax can also cause feedback or whistling in hearing aid users.

If wax has accumulated so much that it blocks the ear canal, it will need to be removed. It is recommended that your primary care physician or an ear nose and throat physician remove the wax. The method of wax removal may depend upon the physician's preference. Wax may be removed through water irrigation, (which many people refer to as washing out the ears), suctioning, or special wax removal instruments called curettes. Your physician may recommend or prescribe eardrops that help soften the wax before it is removed.

Many people try to remove wax themselves using home remedies or over-the-counter solutions. People with a history of any ear disease, especially swimmer's ear, or a perforated eardrum, should see an ENT. Also, it is important to realize that using self-irrigation may convert a partial wax blockage into a complete blockage if the liquid becomes trapped between the wax and the ear drum. Candling has also gained popularity in recent years. This technique involves placing a special candle into the ear canal and allowing it to burn for a short period of time. The burning flame supposedly creates a vacuum that sucks the wax out of the ear canal. This is a hazardous procedure and can lead to burning of the ear, hair, or clothing.

Your ears are very sensitive organs that should be treated with respect. It's best to remember your mom's advice and "don't stick anything smaller than your elbow into your ear!"