Excessive Earwax Dangers

Among the many unpleasantries associated with getting older, having too much earwax might be the sneakiest.

Don’t chuckle.

This oily, frequently unappealing accumulation is more common in the ears of the elderly compared to the youth, according to specialists. And when it’s overlooked, it can lead to significant issues, particularly for individuals residing in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

“The excessive amount of earwax can cause hearing loss or ringing in your ears. Some people experience vertigo, which increases the risk of falling,” said Jackie Clark, a board-certified audiologist who is president of the American Academy of Audiology. “Right now, we see some correlation between hearing loss and cognitive decline.”

Earwax, which is not actually wax but a material known as cerumen that sticks with dirt, dust, and particles, is usually made by the body to help clean and safeguard the ears. For the majority of individuals, this natural cleaning mechanism functions properly.

However, in some cases—such as about 10 percent of young kids, 20 percent of adults, and over 30 percent of the elderly and those with developmental disabilities—the wax accumulates to the extent that it fully obstructs the ear canal.

Among older individuals, it’s quite prevalent, appearing to be a simple matter, yet it stands as one of the leading causes for those seeking assistance with hearing issues.

Impacted earwax can be a specific issue for individuals with dementia. It aggravates hearing impairment, which can hinder communication and aggravate aggression and other challenging behaviours.

Too much earwax leads to around 12 million visits to healthcare professionals annually, with about eight million of these needing the removal of earwax. That doesn’t include the individuals who attempt to remove earwax on their own, almost all of whom are disapproved of by the experts.

Individuals cram various items into their ear canals: cotton swabs, hairpins, pens, and nail clippings.

Typically, the most effective approach to managing earwax is to abstain from interfering with it. However, this recommendation may not always work when there’s a lack of attention to the ear health of seniors living in care facilities by their families or caretakers.

Those who wear hearing aids are advised to undergo ear examinations every three to six months, according to the recommendations. Additionally, individuals with dementia are also recommended to have their earwax cleared out on a regular basis.

Individuals often insert various items into their ears: cotton swabs, bobby pins, pens, and nails.

Typically, the most effective approach to managing earwax is to avoid interfering with it. However, this approach may not be successful if there’s a lack of attention to the ears of the elderly in care facilities by their families or caregivers.

According to recommendations, individuals who use hearing aids should undergo ear examinations every three to six months. It’s also important for those with dementia to have their earwax cleared regularly.

Identifying if earwax is obstructing the ear canal might require a specialist equipped with an otoscope, a tool that allows for a thorough examination of the ear. In most cases, earwax can be safely eliminated by moistening it with water, saline solution, or over-the-counter ear drops, followed by a careful removal process with microsuction.

In older adults, the impact can be felt right away. A minor study from 2014, conducted by scientists in Japan, discovered notable enhancements in both hearing and mental abilities among senior individuals with memory issues after their earwax was cleared.

However, it’s quite common for earwax in the senior population to be overlooked.

At Kilmarnock Hearing Centre, we swiftly eliminate earwax. Should you or a family member have impacted earwax, avoid trying to get rid of it on your own. Reach out to us, and we’ll expertly and securely eliminate the earwax. Additionally, we provide in-home services for those with mobility problems.

We have ear wax removal clinics in Kilmarnock, Paisley, East Kilbride & Arran.