Ear wax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the body to protect and clean the ear canal. It is composed of a mixture of oils, sweat, and dead skin cells, and it helps to moisturize the skin, prevent infections, and trap dirt and other foreign particles. While ear wax is an important part of the body's natural defence system, it can sometimes build up and cause problems.
One of the main reasons older people are more prone to suffering from build ups of ear wax is that they tend to produce more of it as they age. The production of ear wax decreases with age, but the rate at which it is naturally removed from the ear canal also decreases. This can lead to a build-up of ear wax, especially in people who do not clean their ears regularly or have narrow or curved ear canals.
Another factor that can contribute to ear wax build-up in older people is the use of hearing aids. These devices can trap ear wax, which can then accumulate over time and cause blockages. Similarly, the use of earplugs or headphones can also increase the risk of ear wax build-up, as these items can block the natural movement of ear wax out of the ear canal.
In addition to these factors, older people may also be more prone to ear wax build-up due to certain medical conditions or medications that affect the production or removal of ear wax. These can include hormonal imbalances, skin conditions, and certain medications such as diuretics, antidepressants, and antihistamines.
It is important to have ear wax build-up removed by a medical professional, as attempting to remove it yourself can be dangerous and potentially harmful. Using cotton swabs, ear candles, or other home remedies to remove ear wax can push the wax further into the ear canal, causing blockages and potentially damaging the ear drum. It can also increase the risk of infection and other complications.
Instead, it is best to have ear wax build-up removed by a healthcare professional, such as an audiologist or a nurse. These professionals have the training and expertise to safely and effectively remove ear wax using specialized tools and techniques. Here at medicure hearing, our wax removal specialist Amy is a registered nurse with many years experience in the industry.
There are several methods that can be used to remove ear wax, including irrigation, suction, and manual removal. Irrigation involves flushing the ear with a saline solution to soften and loosen the wax, while suction involves using a special device to gently remove the wax. Manual removal involves using a small instrument, such as a curette or forceps, to gently remove the wax. Here at medicure hearing, we will assess your earwax and decide which method will be best to remove the ear wax safely.
Regardless of the method used, it is important to follow the instructions of the healthcare professional and avoid attempting to remove ear wax on your own. If you are experiencing symptoms such as hearing loss, earache, or a feeling of fullness in the ear, it is important to seek medical attention to have the ear wax build-up properly removed, so get booked in for you rear check!
In conclusion, older people are more prone to suffering from build-ups of ear wax due to factors such as age-related changes in ear wax production and removal, the use of hearing aids and other devices, and certain medical conditions and medications. It is important to have ear wax build-up removed by a medical professional to avoid the risk of complications and ensure proper ear health.
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