Earwax is a substance produced inside your ears. Its function is to keep the ears clean and free from germs.
Earwax usually passes out of the ears naturally, but sometimes too much can accumulate, blocking the ears. This build- up of earwax is a common problem that in most cases can be easily treated using drops bought from a pharmacy.
Some people are more prone to excess earwax than others. This is due to their body naturally producing too much earwax. Other factors that contribute to an earwax build-up include:
- Having narrow ear canals (the tube that connects the opening of the ear with the ear drum).
- Having excessively hairy ears.
- Naturally producing hard or dry earwax.
- Being elderly – as we age, our earwax can become harder and drier.
- Having bony growths in the outer regions of the ear canal.
- Using cotton buds or ear plugs – frequently inserting objects into the ear can cause a build- up.