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Ear Wax
Cerumen

Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stoppler, MD
Medical Editors: William C. Shiel, JR, MD, FACP, FACR and Jay W. Marks, MD

What is ear wax?

The skin on the outer part of the ear canal has special glands that produce ear wax, also known as cerumen. The purpose of this natural wax is to protect the ear from damage and infections. Normally, a small amount of wax accumulates and then dries up and falls out of the ear canal, carrying with it unwanted dust or sand particles.

Ear wax is helpful to coat the skin of the ear canal where it acts as a temporary water repellent. The absence of ear wax may result in dry, itchy ears, and even infection.




Next: What does ear wax look like? »

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Ear Wax

Objects Or Insects In Ear »

Objects or insects in ear overview

Foreign objects in the ear are common reasons for emergency room visits, especially in children. The vast majority of these foreign objects are harmless. Some, however, are extremely uncomfortable (insects or sharp objects) and some can rapidly produce an infection (food) requiring emergency treatment. If you are not certain of the potential for harm seek medical care immediately.

What are causes of objects in the ear?

Most objects that get stuck in the ear canal are placed there by the patients themselves. Children who are curious about their bodies and interesting objects are the most common group who has this problem. Beads, food (especially beans), paper, cotton swabs, rubber erasers and small toys are the most common foreign bodies.

Ear wax is a naturally occurring substance in the ear canal but can become a problem when it builds up to the point that it clogs the ear canal a...

Read the Objects Or Insects In Ear article »




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