Everything You Should Know About Earwax

The Truth About Earwax: When to Remove It and When to Leave It Alone

Earwax, or cerumen, is often misunderstood. Many people think of it as something dirty that should be removed frequently, but in reality, earwax plays an essential role in keeping your ears healthy. At Novasound Hearing & Balance Center, we help patients safely manage their earwax to maintain optimal ear health. In this post, we’ll explore what earwax does, when it becomes a problem, and the safest ways to remove it.

What Is Earwax and Why Is It Important?

Earwax is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It serves several important functions:

• Protection – It traps dust, dirt, and bacteria, preventing them from reaching deeper into your ear.
• Lubrication – It keeps your ear canal from becoming dry and irritated.
• Self-Cleaning – Earwax gradually moves outward, carrying debris with it before naturally flaking away.

When Does Earwax Become a Problem?

In most cases, earwax doesn’t need to be removed. However, some people experience excessive buildup, which can lead to:

• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) – A blockage can sometimes lead to ringing or buzzing sounds.

• Hearing loss – Blocked ear canals can reduce your ability to hear clearly.

• Ear pain or pressure – Excess wax can cause discomfort or even dizziness.

You may need professional earwax removal if you experience any of these symptoms.

What NOT to Do: The Risks of Cotton Swabs

Many people use cotton swabs (Q-tips) to clean their ears, but this can actually push wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to impaction. Other unsafe methods include:

• Using sharp objects – This can damage the delicate skin in the ear canal.
• Ear candles – These have been proven ineffective and can cause burns or injury.

Safe & Professional Earwax Removal Options

At Novasound Hearing & Balance Center, we offer safe, professional earwax removal using:

• Irrigation – A gentle flushing with warm water.
• Microsuction – A precise and painless method using a small vacuum.
• Manual removal – Using specialized tools under magnification.

When to See a Professional

If you’re experiencing discomfort, hearing loss, or frequent wax buildup, it’s best to seek professional help. We provide quick and painless earwax removal in Halifax, ensuring your ears stay healthy and your hearing remains clear.

Book Your Earwax Removal Appointment Today! Don’t let earwax buildup affect your hearing and comfort. Contact Novasound Hearing & Balance Center at 902-444-7788 or visit novasound.ca to schedule a professional earwax removal appointment today!