Cerumenvaikeudet

Cerumenvaikeudet refers to problems associated with earwax, medically known as cerumen. Earwax is a natural secretion produced by glands in the ear canal and serves to protect the ear by trapping dust and foreign particles, lubricating the canal, and having antibacterial properties. While normally it is self-cleaning, sometimes issues arise.

These difficulties can manifest as impaction, where earwax builds up and completely blocks the ear canal. Symptoms of impacted earwax include hearing loss, a feeling of fullness in the ear, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), dizziness, and earache. The causes of impaction can include overproduction of earwax, narrow ear canals, the use of cotton swabs which push wax deeper into the canal, and the use of hearing aids or earplugs that can interfere with the natural outward migration of wax.

Management of cerumenvaikeudet typically involves softening the wax with ear drops, followed by irrigation or professional removal by a healthcare provider. It is generally advised against using cotton swabs or inserting any objects into the ear canal to avoid injury or worsening the impaction. Recurring cerumenvaikeudet may require regular check-ups and preventative measures.