It protects the eardrum by trapping small particles of dirt and debris and prevents drying of the skin in the ear canal.
Some persons produce a larger amount of ear wax than others.
Occasionally, this can become hardened and impacted, diminishing the hearing in that ear. Generally, this is not painful unless an infection is also present in the ear. If there is no pain, fever or discharge from the ear, impacted wax can be removed by simple irrigation with warm water. Otherwise, warm water irrigations may be administered at the Health Service. Prevention One drop of mineral oil or an over the counter softener called Debrox, used at bedtime will loosen the wax and prevent impactation.