What is a cerumen impaction?
A cerumen impaction is a buildup of earwax in the ear canal that blocks the passage of sound. It is a common condition that can affect people of all ages.
How does cerumen impaction occur?
Earwax, also known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the ear to protect it from dirt, bacteria, and other foreign objects. Usually, earwax naturally works its way out of the ear canal. However, sometimes, it can build up and become impacted.
Causes of cerumen impaction:
- Overproduction of earwax: Some people naturally produce more earwax than others.
- Narrow ear canal: A narrow ear canal can make it difficult for earwax to drain.
- Use of cotton swabs: Inserting cotton swabs into the ear canal can push earwax further in, causing an impaction.
- Hearing aids: Hearing aids can trap earwax and prevent it from draining.
- Other factors: Certain medical conditions, such as eczema, can increase the risk of earwax buildup.
Symptoms of cerumen impaction:
- Hearing loss: This is the most common symptom of cerumen impaction.
- Earache: A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear.
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus): A ringing or buzzing sound in the ear.
- Coughing: A cerumen impaction can irritate the ear canal and trigger a cough.
- Dizziness: In rare cases, a cerumen impaction can cause dizziness.
Treatment of cerumen impaction:
Cerumen impaction can usually be treated by a doctor or nurse practitioner. They may use a variety of methods to remove the impacted earwax, including:
- Ear irrigation: This involves flushing the ear canal with warm water to remove the earwax.
- Earwax removal tools: These tools are used to manually remove the earwax.
- Cerumenolytic agents: These are medications that soften the earwax and make it easier to remove.
Prevention of cerumen impaction:
- Avoid inserting objects into the ear canal: This includes cotton swabs, hairpins, and other objects.
- Clean the outer ear regularly: Use a damp washcloth to clean the outer ear.
- Use ear drops: Over-the-counter ear drops can help to soften earwax and prevent buildup.
Conclusion:
Cerumen impaction is a common condition that can be treated effectively. If you experience any symptoms of earwax buildup, see a doctor or nurse practitioner for treatment.
