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sits on top of skin. When the skin in the ear sheds the earwax becomes loose and moves to the outer part of the canal. Our jaw movements also contribute to the dislodgement of waxy debris from the ear canal as well. Eventually the wax drains outside the ear on its own.

MOISTURE
The high lipid content of earwax contributes to the lubrication of the skin in the ear. This prevents itchiness and dryness within the ear canal.

NO VACANCY FOR MICROBES
Cerumen has antimicrobial properties such as lysozyme which breaks down bacterial cell walls. Earwax doesn't only kill bacteria, but antifungal effects have also been found as well.

Earwax is helpful in many ways. However, if it becomes impacted it can lead to problems. If a cotton swab, finger or some other item is used to clean the ear and accidently pushes in too deeply earwax will sit against the eardrum.

Signs of a compacted ear canal are hearing loss, a sense of your ear being clogged, tinnitus (ringing in the ear) or vertigo (dizziness).

Treating earwax compaction usually requires a trip to the same place you probably bought those cotton swabs. But, if there's a complete blockage seeing an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) is your best bet. Here's a quick rundown of what you can do if earwax becomes compacted.

1. Try an over the counter wax removal product which usually contains carbamyl peroxide or hydrogen peroxide.

2. Home remedies are available for those who prefer alternative approaches. Just add vinegar, water and peroxide in a 1:1:2 mixture. Allow it to warm up to body temperature and rinse the ear canal with the mixture to help soften wax. Drops of baby oil can be placed in the affected ear once a week to help soften the wax as well.

3. Ear Candling is a definite no! The practice involves inserting a tube into the ear and lighting the other end. The flame is suppose to create a vacuum system that will help pull out the wax through the tube. The problem is that the hot wax can leak back into the ear canal. Ouch!

Visiting your doctor is probably the first and best thing you should do to rule out any other potential problems that may be causing your symptoms. Earwax is helpful in keeping the ear canal clean and free from bacteria. You can help the process along with the gentle use of cotton swabs on the outside and opening of the ear. Remember ear wax is a self-cleaning process so do not push swabs or your finger into your ears will prevent compaction. So, instead of "I didn't hear you", you'll be saying "got it!"

Learn more about this author, JL Francis.
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