Despite having an unattractive appearance, the ear wax it is not synonymous with lack of hygiene. In fact, the wax produced in our ears has the function of protecting and cleaning the ear canal, so you don't have to feel disgusted!
It works as a protective barrier that prevents the entry of dust and other foreign bodies that can affect the ear, causing blockage, infections or irritation.
see more
Zero tolerance for lies: THESE signs value loyalty VERY MUCH
Researchers find the new world's heaviest animal; what it is?
Even wax is made from a composition with antibacterial properties that prevent the proliferation of microorganisms. Therefore, it is part of the protection and health of the ear canal.
How does ear wax appear?
A ear wax It is produced in the ear canal by the ceruminous or sebaceous glands. It is made up of dead skin, oily secretions and dust.
Its main functions are to prevent dust, dirt, water and any objects from entering the ear. In addition, it is an acidic secretion that prevents bacterial and fungal infections.
Wax usually does not need to be removed from the inner ear as it slowly moves out of the ear canal.
However, if it appears in excess, the right thing is to seek specialized medical attention, so that the correct cleaning of the auditory canal is carried out.
Earwax is such an important mixture that, since 2020, it is being studied to facilitate the diagnosis of cancer:
“Wax is a secretion product that concentrates what is a fingerprint of what our cells produce. So when wax is produced, it has components there that could have been produced by healthy cells. and by cancerous cells,” said Nelson Roberto Antoniosi Filho, a researcher at the Federal University of Goiás.
(Image: Freepik/Playback)
Ear health care
Now that you already know about the function of ear wax, check out other precautions you need to take to keep your ear always clean:
Do not insert objects into the ear
cotton buds and other objects should be kept well away from the inner ear. While it's common practice, swabs in the ear can cause wax to build up in the ear canal, and the material can also injure the ear internally.
Gently clean the outside area
Because the ear canal is self-cleaning, optimal ear cleaning involves removing excess earwax from the outside. Use only a soft, clean towel after showering.
In case of discomfort and pain in the ear, seek a doctor so that he can clean the inner ear.
Be careful with contact with water.
Beach, swimming pool and even bathing can generate a buildup of water in the ear canal, causing discomfort and infections. Therefore, always keep your ear dry after bathing or any contact with water.
As you can see, ear wax is extremely necessary for the ear canal and our well-being. So, you just need to adopt ear cleaning habits that remove excess wax, avoiding injury.