Secretion secrets: things you didn’t know about ear wax - BBC News BBC News Secretion secrets: things you didn’t know about ear wax By Paula McGrath Health Check 16 March 2014 Close share panel Image copyright SPL Earwax is one of those bodily substances which few of us like to discuss in polite company. Like other secretions, it is something that most of us deal with in private. Yet it also holds a fascination for many. In the past, it has been used as a lip balm and salve for puncture wounds. But it can do a little more than that. Recent research suggests it can indicate a build up of pollutants in the body - and it could even be used to diagnose certain conditions. Here are five things you - probably - didn't know about ear wax. 1. How it gets out Image copyright Brian Evans Image caption The cul-de-sac of the ear canal The cells inside the ear canal are unique in the human body - they migrate.

"You could put an ink dot on the eardrum and watch it move over a few weeks and it would be 'carried out' by the movement of the cells." according to Prof Shakeel Saeed at London's Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear hospital. If this didn't happen the mini cul-de-sac of the ear canal would soon fill up with dead cells created by the natural process of skin shedding. This movement also propels the wax - produced by the modified sweat glands which line the ear canal - towards the outside. It's thought that normal movements of the jaw - through eating and talking - assist with this movement. Prof Saeed has noticed that ear wax does sometimes get darker as we age - and that men whose ears get noticeably hairier as they age sometimes find that the wax can't escape through this jungle of hair. 2. It has anti-microbial properties Image copyright Science Photo Library Image caption Cerumen or ear wax secreted by a gland in the ear canal Ear wax contains waxy oils but much of it is made up of keratinocytes - dead skin cells. The rest of cerumen - to give it its technical name - is a mixture of substances.

Between 1,000 to 2,000 glands produce anti-microbial peptides - whilst sebaceous glands close to hair cells add into the mix alcohols, an oily substance called squalene, cholesterol and triglyceride. The production of earwax doesn't vary much between men and women. young or old - but in one small study its triglyceride content decreased from November to July. Cerumen also contains lysozyme, an antibacterial enzyme capable of destroying bacterial cell walls. Other researchers are less convinced and claim that it is the perfect medium in which bacteria can grow. 3. It matters where your family is from Image copyright Science Photo Library Asian and non-Asian ears produce different types of earwax according to scientists at the Monell Institute in Philadelphia. Chromosome 16 is home to the "wet" or "dry" gene for earwax - with the wet variant dominating. A small change in the gene ABCC11 is related to both the dry-type earwax and also for reduced underarm body odour found in Chinese, Japanese and Korean individuals.

The American study measured the concentration of 12 volatile organic compounds found in earwax - in groups of East Asian and white men. In 11 out of the 12 compounds the Caucasian earwax had greater amounts of odorous compounds. Kate Prigge from Monell says their analysis of the smell of ear wax is a first step towards finding out whether they might eventually use it to detect disease. The institute studies a rare genetic disorder called maple syrup urine disease, which can be easily diagnosed through the scent of earwax compounds. Swabbing someone's ears is a much simpler and cheaper process than doing a genetic test. Dr Prigge does realise how odd her choice of career might sound. She says: "You tell someone that you work in human body odour you get a good laugh," says Prigge. "But when you explain the importance behind it or how much information can be gained in these types of studies, people often understand why." 4. A vacuum rather than a syringe might help clear it Image caption Carrie Roberts said the procedure was "miraculous" Carrie Roberts is in her 40s and has an ear wax problem.

She had her ears syringed at the GPs several times, tried hot oil with no success - and ended up with both ears blocked. Ms Roberts decided to pay for micro-suction treatment, where the ear canal is cleaned with an instrument like a tiny vacuum cleaner. Prof Saeed prefers this method to syringing . "With syringing you are going in 'blind' - not under direct vision. If you use water it has to get past the wax and come back, bringing the wax with it. "If there is no gap it can't get through and it shouldn't be forced. It is uncommon to damage the ear drums during syringing, but it does happen." With the micro-suction the whole procedure is carried out whilst looking into the ear canal with a microscope. Carrie said the procedure was "painless, a little noisy and very quick". She adds: "It felt like one of those things they put in your mouth at the dentist to suck water out while you are having a filling, but in your ear. It has been miraculous." Carrie is a convert. "I will go every time now.

Much better than syringing as I didn't feel dizzy and faint afterwards, it was much quicker and I didn't have to mess about with olive oil for a week first. 5. It can be a pollution monitor Image copyright Science Photo Library Image caption Ear implements from the 1800s Earwax, like many other bodily secretions, can show traces of certain toxins in the body such as heavy metals. But it's an odd place to look and no more reliable than a simple blood test. There are also some rare metabolic disorders that affect earwax. The most notable earwax scientific discovery of recent times is that of a 24cm wax earplug from a blue whale . Unlike humans which shed their earwax and dead skin cells, filter-feeding whales retain their earwax, recording life events similar to the way tree rings reveal arid and wet seasons during its lifetime. The earwax was analysed by Sascha Usenko, a environmental scientist at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. He and his team found that during the 12-year-old male whale's life it came into contact with 16 different pollutants such as pesticides.

There was a peak of exposure during the first year of life - suggesting that these were transferred from its mother either in the womb or through her milk. High levels of the stress hormone cortisol appeared in the waxy plug as the animal reaches sexual maturity - when competing for a mate would have been a priority. What's earwax made of? | HowStuffWorks What's earwax made of? A Chinese man has his earwax picked by a chiropodist at an outdoor tea house in Chengdu, China. Contrary to what many people believe, there's no need to remove earwax unless it's impacted. © CHINA PHOTOS/Reuters/Corbis It might seem weird that humans produce wax. After all, that's typically considered the domain of bees . But as anyone who's ever used a cotton swab knows, human ears generate a fair amount of the substance. While earwax is usually detected in the outer ear, it's actually made in the ear canal (between your outer, visible ear and your middle ear). This section of the ear is lined with wax-producing cerumenous glands. Earwax — also known by its technical name, cerumen — is primarily created by those glands.

(Sebum, a fatty secretion of the skin, and dead skin cells also contribute to the makeup of earwax.) It's usually made up of about 60 percent keratin (a protein), with the rest a combination of dead skin cells, fatty acids, cholesterols and other compounds [source: Guest et al. ]. Up Next Why don't women have Adam's apples? Earwax has the same basic composition in each person, but the substance itself can differ in color and texture. People who originate from northeastern Asian countries like China and the Koreas are more likely to have dry earwax. Dry earwax can be hard and red to black in color, or it can be flaky and have a pale yellow shade. For most everyone else, earwax tends to be gooey and ranges from a yellowish-orange to reddish-orange hue. You may be wondering what you can do about this icky wax. The answer is "nothing." Earwax is another one of the human body's many inventive methods of protection. It serves as a sticky trap for debris and bacteria that try to enter the ear. In addition, earwax is self-cleaning. It eventually falls or flakes out of the ear.

So unless there's an excessive buildup of wax in your ear (in which case you should see a doctor), you should leave the substance be. Devices like cotton swabs, while seemingly handy for earwax removal, can actually cause damage to the ear by either pushing earwax deeper into the ear or introducing additional debris, like loose cotton, into the ear canal. We have lots more information about ears and earwax on the next page. 1 Health& - Earwax Earwax Content What is earwax? Earwax, or cerumen, is an oily substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It is usually yellow to brown in colour, but the amount produced and texture can vary from person to person. However, as earwax tends to become harder and drier with age, problems are more likely to occur in the elderly. Chewing and other jaw movements help to move earwax from inside the ear canal towards the visible, fleshy part of the ear (pinna). As earwax travels along the ear canal, it collects hair, dead skin cells, dust and bacteria . As well as preventing these foreign substances from travelling deeper into the ear, it also gives the ear canal a protective coating.

Without earwax, the skin inside the ear canal would become dry and itchy. In some people, a build-up of earwax can cause a mild hearing loss and a feeling of fullness in the ear. Less commonly, symptoms can include earache , ringing in the ears ( tinnitus ) and mild dizziness ( vertigo ). In most cases though, earwax flakes off and falls out of the ear on its own. Hearing usually returns to normal without the need for treatment. A build-up of earwax may be treated by applying softening ear drops or having the wax professionally removed by your doctor. Bacteria Microscopic, single-celled organisms with DNA but no definite nucleus. Bacteria are the cause of many human diseases. Glands Any organ of the body that secretes substances, such as hormones or enzymes, that are used by other parts of the body. Causes The ear is made up of three main parts: the outer ear, middle ear and inner ear . The outer ear consists of the external part of the ear, made of cartilage and bone, which leads to the eardrum .

Earwax is constantly produced by specialised glands in the outer ear canal, which is located between the opening of the ear and the eardrum. It is not always clear what causes a build-up of earwax. However, it tends to be more common in people who naturally produce large amounts of dry earwax. Earwax that collects a lot of foreign substances or remains in the ear canal for a long time is also more likely to dry out and form a build-up. The chance of a build-up also increases with age due to increased hair growth in the ears and slowed movement of earwax out of the ear canals over time. A build-up may also be caused by pushing earwax deeper into the ear canal as a result of cleaning with cotton buds, or frequent use of earphones or hearing aids. Earwax build-up in the outer ear canal. Cartilage A tough, flexible connective tissue found in various parts of the body including the joints and larynx. Glands Any organ of the body that secretes substances, such as hormones or enzymes, that are used by other parts of the body.

Inner ear The innermost portion of the ear embedded in the temporal bone, including the semicircular canals and the cochlea. Middle ear The air-filled central space of the ear, between the eardrum and the inner ear. Eardrum The thin membrane between the external and middle ear that converts soundwaves into vibrations, which are then transmitted to the inner ear. Risk factors Risk factors that increase the likelihood of experiencing a build-up of earwax include: Increasing age; Frequent use of earphones or hearing aids; Using cotton buds to clean inside the ears; Ear abnormalities, such as particularly narrow or hairy ear canals; A history of earwax build-up; Eczema , psoriasis or other medical conditions that cause skin dryness. Signs and symptoms Mild dizziness ( vertigo ). Similar symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions, rather than a build-up of earwax. For this reason, visiting your doctor for diagnosis is recommended if symptoms are ongoing or getting worse. A build-up of earwax can result in a mild hearing loss. Methods for diagnosis To examine a build-up of earwax, your doctor will most likely examine the ear with an instrument called an otoscope.

If an underlying medical condition is suspected, you may be referred to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist for further testing. Examination of the outer ear canal using an otoscope. Types of treatment In most cases, earwax flakes off and falls out of the ear canal without the need for treatment. However, if you experience discomfort or hearing loss, your doctor may suggest one or more of the following treatment options: Self care Softening the earwax at home may help it to fall out on its own. Some examples of substances that can be dripped into the ear include baby oil, olive oil, mineral oil or glycerine. If the build-up remains after a day or two, squirting warm water into the ear canal with a syringe (ear irrigation) may dislodge the softened earwax. Side effects related to ear irrigation can include mild inflammation, itching and short-term dizziness (vertigo). Consulting your doctor for advice on how to prepare and use these treatments is recommended. Ear irrigation is not a suitable treatment if you have recently had an ear infection ( middle or outer ) or burst eardrum . Removing earwax at home with a cotton bud or hairpin can push it further into the ear.

Due to the risk of causing damage to the ear canal or eardrum, this practice is not recommended. Similarly, using an ear candle to draw out wax was a common treatment in the past, but is no longer advised due to the risk of burns or ear damage. Earwax removal In cases where build-up of earwax is severe or ongoing, it may be necessary to visit your doctor to have it removed. Rather than using a syringe, your doctor may perform ear irrigation with an electronic device that squirts the water in a controlled manner. If ear irrigation is unsuccessful, your doctor may remove earwax with a specialised suction device or a small, curved instrument called a curette. Medications For an ongoing build-up of earwax, your doctor may suggest an ear-drop medication to soften earwax. Examples of these medications include carbamide peroxide, dichlorobenzene with chlorbutol, or docusate. Side effects can include irritation of the ear canal and eardrum. Eardrum The thin membrane between the external and middle ear that converts soundwaves into vibrations, which are then transmitted to the inner ear.

Potential complications Complications from a build-up of earwax are uncommon, with many cases clearing without treatment in a week. However, sometimes existing symptoms, such as hearing loss, earache , dizziness ( vertigo ) and ringing in the ears ( tinnitus ), can get worse if left untreated. In cases where there is a large build-up of earwax lodged firmly in the ear canal, an ear infection may occur. As the build-up of wax and infection are sometimes related, one or both conditions may keep coming back over time. Prognosis Earwax is a natural substance that helps to keep the ear canals clean and healthy. Although a build-up may sometimes cause mild pain and discomfort, the condition is usually harmless and easily treated. In many cases, the build-up becomes loose and falls out on its own, without the need for treatment. Prevention While it is not possible to reduce the amount of earwax produced, using ear drops on a regular basis may prevent build-ups by keeping wax soft. Pushing wax further into the ear may be avoided by only cleaning the outer, visible part of the ear, rather than using a cotton bud or other object.

Treating eczema or any other contributing medical condition may also help to prevent a build-up of earwax. Share this article What Is Ear Wax Made Of? | WAXSOL What Is Ear Wax Made Of? What Is Ear Wax Made Of? What is ear wax made of? Ear wax is a waxy substance known as ‘cerumen’ that occurs naturally in the ear. Essentially, cerumen is a cocktail of skin cells, secretions from the ceruminous glands and a waxy substance known as sebum. A study in 1960 found that wet cerumen contains about 50% fat and about 20% protein, while dry ear wax has a composition of 18% fat and 43% protein.* What is sebum? Sebum is a compound made up of mostly fatty acids secreted from the sebaceous glands located in the skin. Waxy or oily in nature, sebum is believed to lubricate and waterproof the skin and hair of mammals. This substance mixes with the oily secretions from the ceruminous sweat glands in the ear to create cerumen. What does cerumen do?

Cerumen, or ear wax, is believed to assist in lubricating and cleaning the ear canal as well as protecting the inner ear from possible bacterial infections and fungi. It also protects the delicate inner ear by forming a waterproof lining around the ear canal. How is cerumen removed from the ear? In most cases, ear wax naturally works its way out of the body via normal facial and jaw movements. That said, cerumen can occasionally build up in the ear causing a blockage. When this happens, you may need assistance to remove the ear wax build-up. An easy way to assist the removal of excess ear wax is with WAXSOL ear drops. Consult our Ear Wax Build-Up Treatment page for more details. Sources *E. Haahtu, T. Nikkari, O. Koskinen “Fatty Acid Composition of Human Cerumen” Scandinavian Journal of Clinical & Laboratory Investigation, 1960, Vol.12, No.2: P 249-250 Cerumen Impaction - American Family Physician Cerumen Impaction DANIEL F. McCARTER, MD, A. URSULLA COURTNEY, MD, and SUSAN M.

POLLART, MD, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia Am Fam Physician. 2007 May 15;75(10):1523-1528. Patient information: See related handout on earwax , written by the authors of this article. References Cerumen is a naturally occurring, normally extruded product of the external auditory canal. It is usually asymptomatic, but when it becomes impacted it can cause complications such as hearing loss, pain, or dizziness. It also can interfere with examination of the tympanic membrane. Depending on available equipment, physician skill, and patient circumstances, treatment options for cerumen impaction include watchful waiting, manual removal, the use of ceruminolytic agents, and irrigation with or without ceruminolytic pretreatment. The overall quality of the evidence on treatment is limited. Referral to an otolaryngologist for further evaluation is indicated if treatment with a ceruminolytic agent followed by irrigation is ineffective, if manual removal is not possible, if the patient develops severe pain or has vertigo during irrigation, or if hearing loss is still present after cerumen has been removed. The use of cotton swabs and ear candles should be avoided.

Cerumen (i.e., earwax) is composed of secretions and sloughed epithelial cells and hair from the external auditory canal. It protects the skin in the canal and is naturally extruded. However, cerumen may accumulate and occlude the canal of one or both ears, causing discomfort, hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, and chronic cough. It also can contribute to otitis externa. 1 – 3 Because the external auditory canal is innervated by the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, coughing or even cardiac depression can accompany stimulation of the canal from cerumen impaction or removal attempts. 1 , 3 , 4 Cerumen impaction is present in approximately 10 percent of children, 5 percent of normal healthy adults, up to 57 percent of older patients in nursing homes, and 36 percent of patients with mental retardation. 1 An anatomic deformity and an increased number of hairs in the external auditory canal, as well as physical barriers to natural wax extrusion (e.g., cotton swabs, hearing aids, earplug-type hearing protectors) have been associated with an increased incidence of cerumen impaction.

1 , 5 , 6 Cerumen removal is the most common ear, nose, and throat (ENT) procedure performed in primary care; approximately 4 percent of primary care patients will consult their physician for cerumen impaction. 7 SORT: KEY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PRACTICE Clinical recommendation References Comment The use of ceruminolytics alone (without irrigation) becomes more effective with longer treatment duration, but it may only clear earwax up to 40 percent of the time. B Systematic review of lowerquality studies The use of ceruminolytics may improve the effectiveness of irrigation. B 13 Systematic review of lower quality studies Applying water or a ceruminolytic 15 to 30 minutes before irrigation is as effective as applying a ceruminolytic for several days before irrigation. B Systematic reviews of lower quality studies No ceruminolytic is superior to any other or to saline. B Systematic reviews of lower quality studies Ear candling should be avoided.

C 29 , 30 In vitro evaluation in a small case series and an epidemiologic survey A = consistent, good-quality patient-oriented evidence; B = inconsistent or limited-quality patient-oriented evidence; C = consensus, disease-oriented evidence, usual practice, expert opinion, or case series. For information about the SORT evidence rating system, see page 1430 or . SORT: KEY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PRACTICE Clinical recommendation References Comment The use of ceruminolytics alone (without irrigation) becomes more effective with longer treatment duration, but it may only clear earwax up to 40 percent of the time. B Systematic review of lowerquality studies The use of ceruminolytics may improve the effectiveness of irrigation. B 13 Systematic review of lower quality studies Applying water or a ceruminolytic 15 to 30 minutes before irrigation is as effective as applying a ceruminolytic for several days before irrigation. B Systematic reviews of lower quality studies No ceruminolytic is superior to any other or to saline. B Systematic reviews of lower quality studies Ear candling should be avoided.

C 29 , 30 In vitro evaluation in a small case series and an epidemiologic survey A = consistent, good-quality patient-oriented evidence; B = inconsistent or limited-quality patient-oriented evidence; C = consensus, disease-oriented evidence, usual practice, expert opinion, or case series. For information about the SORT evidence rating system, see page 1430 or . Diagnosis References Cerumen impaction is diagnosed by direct visualization with an otoscope. Foreign bodies and a swollen canal from otitis externa can impair tympanic membrane visualization and should be ruled out before attempting cerumen removal. Impaction is a common cause of hearing impairment in older patients and in patients with mental retardation; therefore, it is reasonable to evaluate for cerumen impaction in patients with hearing problems. Similarly, it is appropriate to examine for cerumen impaction in older patients and in patients with mental retardation upon admission to a hospital or institution, as well as periodically thereafter. In one study, 35 percent of hospitalized patients older than 65 years had cerumen impaction and 75 percent of those had improved hearing after documented earwax removal.

5 Because cerumen serves a protective function for the skin in the external auditory canal, removal has been associated with complications including otitis externa, pain, dizziness, syncope, tinnitus, tympanic membrane perforation, and even cardiac arrest. Routine examination is not indicated except in the specific populations mentioned above, when specific complaints are potentially related to cerumen impaction, or if the physician needs to evaluate the tympanic membrane as part of an examination. 4 , 8 – 10 Treatment References Cerumen removal may be attempted by irrigation of the external auditory canal, with or without the use of ceruminolytics; by ceruminolytics alone; or by manual removal using a curette, forceps, or suction. Systematic reviews and one meta-analysis have evaluated these treatment options. 11 – 15 The body of evidence on treatment of cerumen impaction is limited, highlighting a need for well-designed, randomized trials to better inform clinical practice. Manual removal with a curette is a long-recognized method for clearing the ear canal and is considered effective, but no published trials have compared it (or any other manual method) with other removal methods. 11 There also are no controlled trials comparing the different irrigation tools.

The available data, gathered mainly in emergency department and office settings, primarily compare various ceruminolytic agents used alone or in preparation for irrigation. 11 – 15 One small study comparing ceruminolytics with watchful waiting found that 5.3 percent of patients who were not treated had complete clearing of impacted cerumen and 26.3 percent had moderate clearing after five days. 16 MANUAL REMOVAL Manual removal involves the use of a metal or plastic loop or spoon. It generally is considered effective, but there are no trials comparing it with other methods for effectiveness or safety. 11 Manual removal does not expose the ear canal to moisture and, therefore, may lessen the risk of infection. To minimize the risk of trauma to the external auditory canal or tympanic membrane, a cooperative patient and more clinical skill than other methods are required. 17 , 18 Other advantages of manual removal are that it often is quicker and allows direct visualization of the procedure via a hand-held monocular otoscope or floor- or wall-mounted binocular microscope. The use of a binocular microscope will improve depth perception and may enhance comfort and safety, but availability is generally limited to otolaryngology offices.

IRRIGATION Irrigation may be attempted alone or with a ceruminolytic pretreatment. There are different irrigation methods available in the office setting. Ear syringes are inexpensive and readily available, but some can be slow, poorly balanced, or cause minor ear trauma. 10 , 18 , 19 Oral jet irrigators are fast, portable, and inexpensive; however, they also have been associated with some trauma, including tympanic membrane perforation. 9 , 10 , 18 , 19 The risk of tympanic membrane perforation can be lessened by using an ear irrigator tip (Hydro Med, Sherman Oaks, Calif.), which keeps water from hitting the eardrum and eliminates pressure buildup. 10 , 19 It also is possible to improvise an irrigation system using a 20- to 30-cc syringe with either a plastic catheter from a butterfly needle (being careful to remove the needle and wings) or an 18-gauge plastic intravenous catheter. 19 Regardless of the system, the irrigant should be at body temperature to prevent a caloric-reflex response.

Gentle traction should be placed upward and backward on the external ear to help straighten the external auditory canal. 19 The water should be instilled gently and the canal should be checked intermittently for clearance of the cerumen. Irrigation should not be done if a tympanic membrane perforation or myringotomy tube is present. In addition, patients with a history of middle-ear disease, ear surgery, radiation therapy to the area, severe otitis externa, sharp foreign objects in the external auditory canal, or vertigo should not undergo irrigation. 19 Although irrigation is considered to be effective and safe, there are no studies comparing it with other removal methods. 11 One study did show that irrigation alone was effective approximately 70 percent of the time. 20 CERUMINOLYTICS There are three types of cerumen-softening preparations: water-based, oil-based, and non–water-based/non–oil-based ( Table 1 16 , 20 – 22 ). Water-based and non–water-based/non–oil-based agents increase cerumen miscibility, whereas oil-based preparations lubricate the wax.

13 , 21 , 23 Water-based preparations include trietha-nolamine polypeptide oleate condensate, docusate sodium, 3% hydrogen peroxide, 2.5% acetic acid, 10% sodium bicarbonate, and water or saline. Information from references 16 and 20 through 22 . Non–water-based/non–oil-based preparations include carbamide peroxide (Debrox), as well as choline salicylate and glycerol (e.g., Earex Plus, Audax [brands are not available in the United States]) and ethylene oxide polyoxypropylene glycol (Addax [brand is not available in the United States]). Oil-based preparations include arachis (i.e., peanut) oil–based products (e.g., Earex, Cerumol, Otocerol [brands are not available in the United States]), olive oil, almond oil, and mineral oil. 13 As with irrigation, ceruminolytics should be avoided in patients with a suspected breach of the tympanic membrane from previous surgery, insertion of myringotomy tubes, or tympanic membrane perforation.

Ceruminolytics Alone In one systematic review of topical ceruminolytics, investigators concluded that triethanolamine was better than saline and that longer treatment duration with softening agents was better than a shorter duration (14, 19, and 35 percent clear at one, three, and four days, respectively; P < .0001); these were the only statistically significant findings. The review also found that the effect of docusate sodium was not statistically different from that of triethanolamine or saline. 13 The review included one randomized controlled trial that incorporated an untreated control group. 16 It found no statistically significant difference between ceruminolytic therapy and no treatment. 16 Although longer treatment duration appeared to increase the effectiveness of ceruminolytics alone, overall effectiveness is still uncertain because of the evidence limitations. 13 Ceruminolytics Before Irrigation Current evidence suggests that the use of ceruminolytics may improve irrigation success by as much as 97 percent.

13 In studies evaluating the use of a ceruminolytic agent before irrigation, researchers found that triethanolamine (a water-based preparation) was more effective than carbamide peroxide (a non–water-based/non–oil-based preparation) 13 , 24 and that water instilled for 15 minutes before irrigation was more effective than immediate irrigation. 25 No other statistically significant differences were noted in any of the preparations (except those not available in the United States), and there was no difference associated with treatment duration. Use of a ceruminolytic agent 15 to 30 minutes before irrigation was found to be as effective as several days of treatment. 13 Overall, no ceruminolytics appeared to be superior to saline, making saline an inexpensive first-line agent. 13 Based on current evidence, if treatment with a ceruminolytic agent followed by irrigation is chosen, an initial attempt at irrigation with water should be made. If irrigation is unsuccessful, the water should be instilled and left in the external auditory canal for 15 to 30 minutes, after which another attempt at irrigation should be made.

If this second attempt is also unsuccessful, it would be reasonable to use a ceruminolytic for two to three days, followed by another trial of irrigation. 20 HOME OR ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS Home cerumen treatments are not unusual, and many of the treatments mentioned above are available over the counter alone or in earwax removal kits. Cotton ear buds are not definitively associated with cerumen impaction, but they have been implicated in impaction and otitis externa and should be avoided. 26 – 28 Ear candling also should be avoided. Ear candling is a practice in which a hollow candle is inserted into the external auditory canal and lit, with the patient lying on the opposite ear. In theory, the combination of heat and suction is supposed to remove earwax. However, in one trial, ear candles neither created suction nor removed wax and actually led to occlusion with candle wax in persons who previously had clean ear canals. Primary care physicians may see complications from ear candling including candle wax occlusion, local burns, and tympanic membrane perforation.

8 , 29 , 30 Criteria for Appropriate Referral References If the patient develops severe pain with attempted wax removal, lubricating the canal with olive oil for a few days with additional removal attempts can be tried. If pain persists, further removal attempts should cease and a referral should be made to an otolaryngologist. If vertigo develops during irrigation with water at body temperature, perilymphatic fistula or perforation of the oval window should be considered and referral to an ENT subspecialist should be made. Referral should be considered in patients with a very swollen ear canal, an unusual anatomy, or a history of tympanic membrane perforation, radiation, or surgery. 10 , 18 A formal hearing evaluation should be considered in patients with hearing deficits or continued hearing loss after wax removal. Read the full article. What is earwax? - Ear, Nose & Throat - Sharecare What is earwax? A Dr. Eliza Parker , Pediatrics, answered on behalf of MDLIVE Earwax is great stuff! The medical term for earwax is cerumen.

Cerumen is made up of skin cells and a waxy substance produced by little cells in the ear canal called sebaceous glands and modified sweat glands. Earwax is made to protect the skin lining of the ear canal and helps the ear clean itself, it also protects against water, some bacteria and some fungus! While too much earwax can interfere with hearing and needs to be cleaned out by a health care professional this is the exception, not the rule. In general most people make just the right amount of earwax for their ears and frequent removal is not necessary! A Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD , Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease), answered Are you like the 85 percent of respondents to an Oprah.com poll who said they use cotton swabs to clean their ears? Dr. Oz, Vice-Chair and Professor of Surgery at Columbia University, says you may as well be "taking a muzzle-loader and shoving it in there." "Wax is the sweat that the body deposits in the ear lining," he says. "When our ancestors were walking along in the sub-Saharan desert, the dust would get caught like an insect trap and prevent it from getting into your eardrum.

When you take this cotton swab and you start shoving that wax into your eardrum, you risk not only blocking off the pathway, but you also risk perforating-making a hole-in your eardrum which is just a millimeter thick." If you have an excessive buildup of earwax and want to get rid of it, Dr. Oz suggests using "a little mineral oil, drop it in there, it will melt it, and it will come out by itself. You don't have to go plunging in there." So what are you supposed to be using those cotton swabs in your medicine cabinet for anyway? "Taking off makeup," Dr. Oz says. This content originally appeared on doctoroz.com Helpful? 1 person found this helpful. This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs. Videos (6) Cerumen impaction facts | General center | SteadyHealth.com 0 Useful Cerumen is a medical term for earwax. It is produced by the wax glands normally found in the ears.

This is a sticky yellowish substance with a specific purpose. Namely, it possesses lubricating, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is essential in maintaining the proper moisture of the ear and traps foreign particles preventing them from entering deeper in the ear canal. Still, in spite of its function people consider cerumen dirty and regularly remove it from the outer ear canal. Cerumen impaction is a condition in which cerumen builds up and blocks the ear canal. This occurs when accumulated cerumen hardens. Causes of Cerumen Impaction After being produced cerumen is carried to the opening of the ear by the movement of the outer layer of the skin that covers the outer ear canal. After reaching the opening of the ear this yellowish substance dries out and simply flakes off. This is a normal process of cerumen elimination from the body. The movement of cerumen and its elimination is enhanced by chewing. Still, in some cases (such as overproduction of cerumen) the ear may not be able to remove cerumen completely which eventually leads to its accumulation. Apart from overproduction of cerumen, cerumen impaction may be caused by frequent and inadequate use of cotton-tipped swabs and similar objects.

They are used to remove cerumen from the ears. Inappropriate uses of cotton-tipped swabs may only push cerumen further inside the outer ear canal and add to the buildup. Cerumen impaction also affects people who use hearing aids or ear plugs, those with narrow/ twisted ear canal and it is common in people of old age. Symptoms of Cerumen Impaction Cerumen impaction typically features with partial loss of hearing and feeling of fullness in the affected ear. Furthermore, the accumulated cerumen may cause itching, ear pain, tinnitus, vertigo, cough and in some cases dizziness. Treatment for Cerumen Impaction The very presence of impacted cerumen can be diagnosed by a simple examination of the outer ear canal. The condition is treated with irrigation and flushing the ear with lukewarm water. The doctor may use either syringe or other flushing instrument to remove impacted cerumen. If this procedure fails cerumen is first treated with cerumenolytic solution which will soften the impacted mass. Softening of a hard cerumen is successfully achieved by several cerumenolytic substances such as mineral oil, baby oil, peroxide based ear drops, saline solution and glycerin. After ear irrigation the doctor applies antibiotic ear drops.

They are administered to prevent any kind of infection. Ear irrigation is never performed in case the eardrum is perforated or a patient has a history of otitis media. And finally, if irrigation fails even though a cerumenolytic solution has been applied the doctor will remove the impacted cerumen with an instrument called a curette or with the assistance of a vacuum device. Your thoughts on this BBC - Future - The mysterious properties of the wax in your ear Biology The mysterious properties of the wax in your ear The wax that gets secreted in your ears is strange stuff. Is it there to kill bugs? What’s it even made of? BBC Future takes a peek. By Jason G Goldman 3 May 2016 Whales never clean out their ears. Year after year their earwax builds up, leaving behind something of a life history told in fatty acids, alcohols, and cholesterols. The waxy substance builds in the ear canals of many mammals, including ourselves. Human earwax, on the other hand, is not nearly as interesting. It doesn’t offer up an autobiography, and most of us remove the waxy build-up from our ears fairly regularly (about which, more later).

Still, there’s a fascinating science underlying the humdrum substance. The proper name for the stuff is cerumen, and it’s produced only by the outermost bit of the ear canal, thanks to a mix of between one and two thousand sebaceous glands (which, on your head, also help to keep hair oily) and modified sweat glands . Add some bits of hair, dead skin, and other bodily detritus and you’ve got the recipe for earwax. Its main function has long been thought to be primarily one of lubrication (which is why early lip balms were made of the stuff) though it’s also believed to be useful for preventing insects from creeping their way into the internal recesses of your head. But some suspect that earwax also functions as an antibiotic. View image of (Credit: Getty Images) In 1980, NIH researchers Tuu-Jyi Chai and Toby C Chai collected cerumen with a device they refer to as a “sterile earwax hook” from 12 people, and mixed it all together in an alcohol solution. Then they introduced some bacteria to the party. The earwax managed to kill off 99% of several bacteria strains, including H.

influenzae (which, confusingly, doesn’t lead to influenza, but a different type of infection) and a particular strain of E. coli called K-12. Other strains of E. coli, and Streptococcus and Staphylococcus, were a bit more resistant to earwax, with mortality rates varying between 30% and 80%. Still, the collected earwax had clear bactericidal effects on all 10 types of bacteria they tested. Similar results were found in a 2011 German study . In that experiment, 10 peptides found in earwax were able to prevent bacteria and fungi from growing. External ear canal infections, the researchers argued, are what results when the earwax-based defence system fails. Whether you have wet or dry earwax is genetically determined But in 2000, a study conducted at La Laguna University in the Canary Islands found the opposite. Instead, researchers found a neutral effect when it came to one strain of Staph, and in most cases, they found that earwax actually promoted the growth of bacteria, including E. coli, ostensibly due to the rich nutrient bounty it provides.

It’s not the only study to cast doubt on earwax’s propensity for microbial murder. There’s one thing that might shed light on the wildly differing conclusions that these and other studies have put forth. The 1980 and 2011 studies used wax from people with dry earwax, while the 2000 study focused on the wet form. It’s by no means clear that this distinction underlies earwax’s putative antimicrobial properties, but it’s a beguiling hypothesis, especially since the two types are essentially made from the same ingredients. Still, unless you’ve surreptitiously taken a peek into your friends’ ear canals, then you might be surprised, as I was, to learn that there are two different kinds. In the name of full disclosure, mine is wet. View image of (Credit: Science Photo Library) Whether you have wet or dry earwax is genetically determined , and it all comes down to a single letter on a single gene. The gene is called ABCC11, and if you’ve got an A instead of a G, then your earwax will be dry.

(The two resulting types of earwax also smell different .) It’s a rare example of Mendelian inheritance, with the wet type being completely dominant. The pattern is so predictable that earwax has even been used to track ancient human migration patterns. Those of Caucasian or African descent are more likely to have wet earwax, while East Asians are more likely to harbour the dry, flaky variety inside their ears. The two types are seen at more balanced proportions among Pacific Islanders, in Central Asia and Asian Minor, and for Native Americans and the Inuit. Physicians might use almond oil or olive oil to soften impacted wax prior But the most pressing issue surrounding earwax, for most of us, is how to remove it. It’s a question that has apparently plagued humanity since at least the first century CE. In his book De Medicina , the Roman Aulus Cornelius Celsus suggested a set of remedies for removing built-up earwax. “If a crust,” he wrote, perhaps referring to those with dry earwax, “hot oil is poured in, or verdigris mixed with honey or leek juice or a little soda in honey wine.” Ouch. Once the wax is loosened, it can be flushed out with water.

But “if it be wax,” he wrote, perhaps referring to those with wet variety, “vinegar containing a little soda is introduced; and when the wax has softened, the ear is washed out.” He also advised that “the ear should be syringed with castoreum mixed with vinegar and laurel oil and the juice of young radish rind, or with cucumber juice, mixed with crushed rose leaves. The dropping in of the juice of unripe grapes mixed with rose oil is also fairly efficacious against deafness.” Together, it all sounds only a hair more reasonable than a recipe calling for eye of newt, but even today physicians might use almond oil or olive oil to soften impacted wax prior to attempting removal. The truth is some folks do truly suffer earwax-related problems serious enough to warrant intervention. According to a 2004 analysis , around 2.3 million folks in the UK see their doctors every year for such ailments, and some four million ears are treated annually. The elderly, children, and those with learning disabilities encounter problems related to impacted earwax often. It can lead to hearing loss, of course, but also to social withdrawal and even mild paranoia.

“Some patients,” write the researchers, “with impacted wax present with perforated eardrums.” But since cerumen itself can’t perforate the tympanic membrane, it’s self-induced, presumably because folks try to extract the condensed wax on their own. View image of (Credit: Getty Images) Because the risks of using a cotton swab are so high, even for a skilled doctor, most rely on a softening agent, followed by irrigation. But there’s no medical consensus as to the best softening agent, or for whether irrigation is best in the first place. In 2012, University of Minnesota Medical School researchers Anjali Vaidya and Diane J Madlon-Kay concluded that wax-softeners, irrigation, or other manual removal were all viable, but that no one treatment had proven better, safer, or more effective than the others. Still, these procedures are best left to the professionals. Despite the risks, some folks defiantly shove cotton swabs into their ears after a shower knowing full well that physicians recommend against that sort of behaviour. A vigorous swabbing risks perforating the ear drum, or ironically pushing the earwax further into the ear.

Sometimes, the cotton at the end of the swab can fall off, remaining lodged inside the ear canal. If there’s one lesson to learn, it is: don’t do this. (Or at least keep those swabs safely away from the ear canal.) Something else to be absolutely avoided is an alternative medicine practice known as ear candling Something else to be absolutely avoided is an alternative medicine practice known as ear candling. In this practice, a hollow candle made of beeswax or paraffin is held up to the ear and set aflame. The idea is that the heat inside the empty candle draws earwax out of the ear canal, where it can be easily removed. If this seems insane, you’re right. There is absolutely no support for the idea, while plenty of evidence affirms that burning hot candle wax falling onto your ear drum would be quite painful and is best avoided. Consider yourself warned. Join 600,000+ Future fans by liking us on Facebook , or follow us on Twitter , Google+ , LinkedIn and Instagram .

Cerumen: Definition, Function & Impaction Removal | Study.com Cerumen: Definition, Function & Impaction Removal Watch short & fun videos Start Your Free Trial Today Instructor: Kiley Griffin Add to Add to Add to Want to watch this again later? Log in or sign up to add this lesson to a Custom Course. Custom Courses are courses that you create from Study.com lessons. Use them just like other courses to track progress, access quizzes and exams, and share content. Teachers Organize and share selected lessons with your class. Make planning easier by creating your own custom course. Students Create a new course from any lesson page or your dashboard. From any lesson page: Click "Add to" located below the video player and follow the prompts to name your course and save your lesson. From your dashboard: Click on the "Custom Courses" tab, then click "Create course". Next, go to any lesson page and begin adding lessons. Edit your Custom Course directly from your dashboard. Personalize: Name your Custom Course and add an optional description or learning objective. Organize: Create chapters to group lesson within your course. Remove and reorder chapters and lessons at any time. Share your Custom Course or assign lessons and chapters.

Teacher Edition: Share or assign lessons and chapters by clicking the "Teacher" tab on the lesson or chapter page you want to assign. Students' quiz scores and video views will be trackable in your "Teacher" tab. Premium Edition: You can share your Custom Course by copying and pasting the course URL. Only Study.com members will be able to access the entire course. This lesson should tell you everything you've ever wanted to know about ear wax, also known as cerumen. You should learn what cerumen is, where it is located, as well as what problems it may cause. Trouble Hearing Bob is an older gentleman with a hearing aid in his right ear. Lately, he's noticed that he is having a hard time hearing out of both of his ears. He changed the battery of his hearing aid to make sure it is working properly, but it didn't help. He has also had some pain in the left ear, and occasionally he feels dizzy. Bob is worried that perhaps his hearing is getting worse, so he makes an appointment with his doctor. The doctor examines Bob's ears and finds a build up of cerumen in them. Bob is not sure what this means---should he be worried? Trouble Hearing What is Cerumen?

Cerumen is the medical term for ear wax. It is made by the body in the outer ear canal as a way to protect and clean the ear. The yellowish waxy substance is a combination of lubricants and dry tissue from the body. What is the Function of Cerumen? The ear canal is the passage that leads to the ear drum. Behind the ear drum are small bones that assist with hearing by converting vibrations to sounds. Cerumen is found in the ear canal in front of the ear drum. Cerumen can provide protection from bacteria, fungus, insects and water. By shedding dead tissue and lubricating the canal, the ear is cleaning itself to ensure vibrations can pass easily through to be transformed into sound. The cerumen acts as a stopping point for bacteria and fungus, causing them to get stuck in the sticky wax. These harmful substances then leave the body rather than penetrating further into the ear canal and causing damage. Anatomy of the Ear What Happens when Cerumen is Impacted? It is completely normal to have cerumen in the ear. Sometimes, however, it can build up and become impacted.

Impacted cerumen gets built up in the ear canal when the body is not properly ridding itself of the wax and it gets stuck. Common signs of impacted cerumen include a feeling of fullness in the ear, pain, ringing and dizziness. If the cerumen is not removed and continues to build up, it can cause more hearing loss. The wax builds up in front of the ear drum and greatly effects the sound coming into the ear. Vibrations are not able to travel through to the ear drum, making hearing difficult. Both the elderly and individuals with hearing aids are more likely to have impacted cerumen. Individuals who use cotton tipped swabs also have a higher risk as they are pushing the wax further into the ear. How is Cerumen Removed? Our bodies are programmed so that moving the jaw helps move cerumen out of the ear. Sometimes wax will build up or be seen on the outer ear, and this is easily washed away. Impacted cerumen can result in hearing loss, which is why it is important to have it removed appropriately. Cotton tipped swabs are never recommended to remove cerumen.

Not only do they push wax deeper into the canal, but if pushed too far into the ear canal they can cause damage to the ear drum. To safely remove ear wax, doctors will often prescribe an over the counter wax softener. A few drops are placed in the ear, and the cerumen will loosen and drain on its own. This can also be done in a doctor's office, especially if they are trying to examine an ear and the wax is impeding the view of the ear drum. × Cerumen | definition of cerumen by Medical dictionary Cerumen | definition of cerumen by Medical dictionary cerumen [sĕ-roo´men] a waxy secretion of the glands of the external acoustic meatus; ear wax. adj., adj ceru´minal, ceru´minous. ce·ru·men (sĕ-rū'men), The soft, brownish yellow, waxy secretion (a modified sebum) of the ceruminous glands of the external auditory canal. [L.

cera, wax] cerumen /ce·ru·men/ (sĕ-roo´men) earwax; the waxlike substance found within the external meatus of the ear.ceru´minalceru´minous cerumen ce·ru′mi·nous (-mə-nəs) adj. cerumen [siro̅o̅′mən] Etymology: L, cera, wax a yellowish or brownish waxy secretion produced by vestigial apocrine sweat glands in the external ear canal. Also called earwax . Cerumen cerumen Earwax ENT A waxy secretion of the hair follicles and glands of the external auditory canal which protects the ear by trapping dust, microorganisms, and foreign particles, preventing them from entering and damaging the ear. See Wet cerumen. ce·ru·men (sĕ-rū'mĕn) The soft, brownish yellow, waxy secretion (a modified sebum) of the ceruminous glands of the external auditory meatus. [L. cera, wax] Ear wax. cerumen the wax which is secreted in the outer ear canal of mammals to protect the delicate skin lining the canal.

Cerumen

Question: Found in the body what substance is cerumen?
Answer: Ear Wax