cerumen

Cerumen, commonly known as earwax, is a natural substance produced in the external auditory canal. It is formed by secretions from ceruminous glands and sebaceous glands, together with shed skin cells. Cerumen normally migrates outward as the jaw moves and as canal skin continually renews itself, carrying debris with it.

Cerumen varies in texture and color. The two broad types are wet and dry; the distribution of these types is influenced by genetic variation, with wet cerumen more common in many populations and dry cerumen more common in others. Wet cerumen is typically sticky and honey-colored, while dry cerumen is flaky and gray.

Functions of cerumen include protection and lubrication. It traps dust, bacteria, and other particles, reduces irritation of the ear canal skin, and helps maintain a mildly acidic environment that inhibits some microorganisms. The waxy coating also helps preserve the integrity of the tympanic membrane and the skin of the ear canal.

Most people do not need routine cleaning of the ear canal. In fact, inserting objects such as cotton swabs can push cerumen deeper, leading to impaction, discomfort, or hearing changes. If cerumen accumulates and causes symptoms, softening drops (for example, mineral oil, saline, or cerumenolytics) followed by careful removal may be advised by a clinician. Irrigation or suction removal should be performed by a professional, especially if there is a history of ear surgery, a perforated eardrum, or active ear infection.

Cerumen impaction can present with fullness, hearing loss, tinnitus, or earache. Seek medical evaluation if there is severe pain, drainage, fever, or suspected perforation.