What does it mean if a lot of wax is building up in my ears?
What does it mean if a lot of wax is building up in my ears? Excessive earwax buildup is a frequent problem that can have a variety of consequences depending on the severity and cause of the accumulation. Here's an in-depth look at what it means to have a lot of wax buildup in your ear. 1. Normal Earwax Production 1.1. Earwax Functions: Protective Barrier: Earwax, also known as cerumen, protects the ear canal by collecting dust, dirt, and bacteria before they reach the eardrum. Lubrication: It also lubricates the ear canal, keeping it from becoming dry and itchy. 1.2. Natural Cleansing Mechanism: Self-Cleaning: Typically, earwax is expelled from the ear canal over time as a result of jaw motions, such as chewing and talking. The inherent movement of cerumen aids in maintaining cleanliness of the auditory canal. 2. Causes of Excessive Earwax Buildup 2.1. Overproduction: Genetics and Age: Individuals vary in the amount of earwax the...