FAQs About Ear Wax

Ear wax is a topic that generates a lot of questions. From concerns about its colour to confusion about how to manage it, there is a great deal of curiosity surrounding this natural substance. As experts in ear health, we have heard every question imaginable. This guide provides clear, evidence-based answers to the most frequently asked questions about ear wax, helping you to better understand and care for your ears.

1. Why do I have so much ear wax?

The amount of ear wax a person produces is highly individual and is influenced by several factors. Some people simply have more active ceruminous glands than others. Genetics plays a significant role; if your parents had a lot of wax, you are more likely to as well. Other factors that can increase wax production include frequent use of hearing aids or earplugs, which can stimulate the glands, and having very narrow or hairy ear canals.

2. What does the color of my ear wax mean?

The color of your ear wax is usually an indicator of its age, not your health.

•Light Yellow or Honey-Colored: This is fresh, healthy wax.

•Dark Brown or Black: This is older wax that has been in the ear canal longer, has oxidized, and has trapped more debris. It is generally not a cause for concern.

•Greenish or Bloody: Wax that is green, has a foul odor, or is tinged with blood could be a sign of an ear infection or an injury to the ear canal. In these cases, you should see a healthcare professional.

3. Is it safe to use ear drops to remove wax?

Over-the-counter ear drops can be a safe way to soften wax, which can help the ear’s natural cleaning process. However, they are not a solution for removing a significant blockage. It is important to only use drops when you are certain you do not have an ear infection or a perforated eardrum. If you have any ear pain or discharge, do not use drops and see a professional instead. It is always best to consult with a doctor or audiologist before starting any home treatment.

4. How often should I have my ears professionally cleaned?

For most people, professional ear cleaning is not a necessary part of a routine health regimen. However, for individuals who are prone to wax build-up, such as hearing aid users or those with very narrow ear canals, a regular check-up is a good idea. Many people in these groups find that a professional cleaning every 6 to 12 months helps to prevent impaction and keeps their ears healthy.

5. Can ear wax cause permanent hearing loss?

In the vast majority of cases, hearing loss from ear wax is temporary. The wax creates a physical barrier that blocks sound from reaching the eardrum. Once the wax is removed, hearing is typically restored to its previous level. However, if a severe impaction is left untreated for a very long time, it can contribute to chronic inflammation and, in very rare cases, more lasting damage. The greater risk comes from improper removal attempts, which can cause permanent hearing loss by damaging the eardrum.

6. My ear started hurting after I went swimming. Is it swimmer’s ear or a wax problem?

This is a common and important question. The symptoms can be similar. When water gets trapped behind a wax blockage, it can cause the wax to swell, leading to a sudden feeling of fullness and pain. This can mimic the symptoms of swimmer’s ear (otitis externa), which is an infection of the ear canal skin. The key difference is that swimmer’s ear is an infection that often requires antibiotic ear drops. A professional needs to look in the ear to make the correct diagnosis.

7. Is it true that some people have “dry” ear wax and others have “wet” ear wax?

Yes, this is true. The type of ear wax you have is determined by your genetics. A specific gene (the ABCC11 gene) controls whether your ear wax is wet or dry.

•Wet Wax: This is the more common type in individuals of European and African descent. It is typically honey-colored or darker and has a sticky texture.

•Dry Wax: This is common in individuals of East Asian and Native American descent. It is typically flaky, brittle, and grayish in color.

Neither type is better or worse than the other; they are simply different.

8. Can stress cause more ear wax?

While there is no direct scientific evidence to prove that stress causes an increase in ear wax production, stress is known to affect the body in many ways. The glands that produce wax are similar to the glands that produce sweat, and these can be stimulated by the body’s stress response. Therefore, it is plausible that periods of high stress could lead to a temporary increase in wax production for some individuals.

9. What is the best way to clean my ears at home?

The safest and most effective way to clean your ears at home is to not clean them at all. Your ears are self-cleaning. You can wash the outer part of your ear with a soft cloth, but you should never insert anything into the ear canal. If you feel you have a blockage, the best course of action is to see a professional who can remove it safely.

10. Does microsuction hurt?

For the vast majority of patients, microsuction is a completely painless and comfortable procedure. You will hear the sound of the suction, which some people describe as a gentle whistling or rushing sound. Because the procedure is performed under high magnification, the professional can avoid touching the sensitive skin of the ear canal, making it a very safe and comfortable experience.