Is It Safe to Leave Earwax Untreated? Understanding Ear Health

Learn why leaving earwax alone is generally OK and how it protects your ears.

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It is generally OK to leave earwax alone. Earwax protects your ears by trapping dust and debris and has antibacterial properties. Only clean the outer part of your ear if necessary and avoid inserting objects into the ear canal.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is earwax made of? Earwax is composed of secretions from sebaceous glands, skin cells, and other debris that helps lubricate and protect the ear.
  2. When should I clean my ears? You should only clean your ears if you notice discomfort, blockage, or excessive buildup, and it’s best to consult a healthcare provider first.
  3. Can earwax cause hearing loss? Yes, excessive earwax buildup can lead to temporary hearing loss by blocking sound waves from entering the ear canal.
  4. Is it safe to use Q-tips to clean my ears? No, using Q-tips can push earwax further into the ear canal and may cause damage; it's safer to clean only the outer ear.