1. What is cerumen and what is its function?
Cerumen is formed from a mixture of oils, dead skin cells, sweat, and dirt in the ear canal. It is then pushed out of the ear canal by the cilia on the surface of the glandular cells.
Subsequently, cerumen dries and flakes off from the outer ear. This process is continuous, with layers of earwax being replaced by new ones.
Cerumen serves to prevent bacteria, fungi, dust, insects,...from entering the ear canal. Additionally, it helps sound waves travel more easily.
Normal cerumen is yellow in color, slightly sticky, and odorless. Depending on an individual's body characteristics, age, diet, living environment, cerumen gland activity, and genetic factors, cerumen can be either dry or wet. In some people, cerumen may form crusts or flakes.
2. When is crusted cerumen commonly observed?
Crusted cerumen can occur in the following situations:
- Normal physiological phenomenon: If cerumen becomes thicker, drier, has more flakes, or appears darker than usual without any unusual odor, it is not a sign of a serious medical condition but rather a sign of the body's aging process. This is common in older adults (a normal physiological occurrence).
- Eczema: If both the cerumen and the skin of the ear canal become dry and flaky, often accompanied by itching, it may be a sign of eczema. This condition is relatively easy to treat, but it is advisable to consult with a doctor or pharmacist when using medication, as the skin in the ear canal is quite sensitive.
- Psoriasis: If cerumen forms crusts with a uniform structure and is accompanied by swelling and pain, it may be a sign of psoriasis (a rarer condition). In most cases, the patient would already be aware of the condition due to rashes appearing in other areas of the body. However, it is still important to see a doctor for a proper examination, consultation, and an appropriate treatment plan.
- Fungal infection in the ear canal: In some cases, cerumen flakes are caused by the shedding of the epithelial layer in the outer ear canal, combined with a fungal infection. If the flakes become large enough to block the ear canal or attach to the eardrum, they can cause hearing loss and tinnitus. If not removed promptly, these flakes can accumulate, covering the ear canal, and eventually become tightly attached to the ear canal's skin, leading to bleeding when attempts are made to remove them.
3. What should you do if cerumen forms a crust?
3.1. In the case of physiological crusted cerumen.
As mentioned above, in cases where cerumen forms a crust due to aging, regular and proper ear cleaning is usually sufficient. Here's how to safely clean your ears when earwax has formed a crust:
- Avoid inserting any sharp objects into your ears, as they can puncture the eardrum. Do not use cotton swabs or your fingers to dig into your ears. These tools can push the earwax deeper, potentially creating a blockage that seals the eardrum.
- It is recommended to apply a few drops of earwax softening solution, such as hydrogen peroxide, mineral oil, glycerin, or over-the-counter ear drops. After the cerumen has softened, prepare a cup of warm water, use a bulb syringe to gently squirt the water into the ear, and tilt your head to the side to allow the cerumen to drain out. Afterward, gently wipe the ear clean. You can then dry your ear using a hairdryer on a low setting or place a small amount of alcohol into each ear to help dry it.
- Do not clean your ears too frequently, once a month is usually enough.
3.2. In the case of pathological crusted earwax.
Crusted cerumen is a symptom of certain medical conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections in the ear canal. In these cases, it is important to consult a doctor for advice and treatment with the most effective methods.
Through this article, we hope to provide readers with useful information and guidance on how to manage crusted cerumen. Proper and safe ear cleaning helps protect the eardrum and prevent ear canal-related diseases.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
