tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing or humming sound in the ear without any external stimuli. It is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. The cause of tinnitus can vary from noise exposure to hearing loss to medication side effects. However, a lesser-known cause of tinnitus is earwax buildup.
Earwax is a natural substance produced by the body to protect the ear canal. It acts as a barrier for bacteria, dirt, and other foreign substances, preventing them from entering the ear canal. Earwax also aids in lubricating the ear canal and trapping dead skin cells and hair, eventually pushing them out of the ear.
However, when there is an overproduction of earwax, or it is not effectively removed from the ear canal through natural means, it can accumulate and lead to tinnitus. The excess earwax can obstruct sound waves from reaching the inner ear, causing sound distortion and hearing difficulties, which can result in a ringing or buzzing sound.
Earwax buildup is particularly common among people who use headphones regularly or work in noisy environments. Additionally, individuals with narrow ear canals or those using hearing aids can experience a higher risk of earwax buildup.
Symptoms of earwax buildup can include earache, ringing in the ear, itching, and difficulty hearing. If left unchecked, the earwax can lead to infections or even temporary hearing loss.
Fortunately, earwax buildup can be easily treated by removing the excess earwax. Some people use cotton swabs or other objects to remove earwax, which can do more harm than good. Inserting any object into the ear canal can push the earwax further into the ear or cause injury to the eardrum.
The best way to remove earwax is to visit a healthcare professional. They can use special instruments such as suction or irrigation to safely remove accumulated earwax without damaging the eardrum.
To prevent earwax buildup, individuals can avoid using cotton swabs, loud headphones, and other items that may push earwax further into the ear canal. Additionally, they can seek regular ear cleaning from a medical professional on a case-by-case basis.
In conclusion, earwax buildup is a lesser-known cause of tinnitus that can lead to discomfort and hearing difficulties. It is essential to seek medical attention for the safe removal of earwax to avoid further complications. Preventive measures and regular ear cleaning can help maintain ear health and prevent earwax buildup.