Earwax (Ear Dirt) in Thailand

What is Earwax (Ear Dirt)?

Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. Its primary function is to protect the ear by trapping dust, dirt, and other small particles, preventing them from reaching and potentially damaging the delicate eardrum. Composed of a mix of skin cells, hair, and secretions from the ceruminous and sebaceous glands, earwax also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, playing a crucial role in maintaining ear health. The color and consistency of earwax can vary, generally ranging from a light yellow to a dark brown, and from soft and sticky to dry and flaky. This variation is often influenced by genetics and ethnicity.

The body has a natural mechanism for earwax removal, where old earwax is gradually pushed out of the ear canal by new wax and jaw movements, like chewing and talking. However, problems can arise when earwax accumulates excessively or becomes impacted. Symptoms of impacted earwax include earache, a feeling of fullness in the ear, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), hearing loss, itching, and dizziness. It's important not to attempt to clean the ears with cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects, as this can push the wax further into the ear canal, leading to blockage or damage. Instead, earwax removal should be performed by a healthcare professional. In some cases, at-home treatments like over-the-counter ear drops may be recommended to soften the wax, making it easier to remove. Regular ear cleaning is generally not necessary, and the ears should be allowed to clean themselves naturally.

What is Ear, Nose and Throat?

Ear, Nose and Throat; It includes hearing, speech, nose and sinus, balance disorders, diagnosis and treatment of throat diseases, head and neck cancers and surgery of tumoral structures in this region. Ear-related diseases; Tinnitus, earwax, fluid accumulation in the ear, external auditory canal inflammation, acute middle ear inflammation, hearing loss. In addition, ENT specialist deals with problems such as ear tumors, ear pain, ear discharge, ear bleeding. Upper respiratory and digestive tract or digestive tract diseases and problems related to the structure of the larynx are also included in the scope of the Otolaryngologist. This includes disorders related to voice, breathing, and swallowing. Otorhinolaryngologists intervene in infections and tumors in the head and neck structures. They are also trained for the treatment of facial trauma and facial deformities.