Earwax, also known as earwax or cerumen, is a naturally occurring substance in the ear canal that protects the ear canal from bacteria and small insects. However, when earwax is excessive or left unclean for a long period of time, it can pose a series of hidden health risks. Although often overlooked, ear health is vital to maintaining comfort and balance in daily life. Just as sleep has an impact on physical health, earwax management is directly related to our quality of life.

　　Individual earwax cleaning habits not only affect hearing and ear canal hygiene, but may also indirectly affect overall health. Prolonged failure to clean earwax can lead to a variety of problems including hearing loss, ear canal infections, and in severe cases, even the balance and nerve function of the inner ear.

　　Recent medical research has also revealed a link between not cleaning earwax over time and certain health problems, which are discussed in more detail below.

　　Potential Risks of Not Cleaning Earwax

　　In 2023, a large sample study on earwax management and health risks was published in the prestigious medical journal Otolaryngology. The study involved nearly 20,000 participants, with an average age of 45, and revealed a strong link between earwax cleaning and health conditions through long-term follow-up.

　　5 key findings

　　Earwax accumulation linked to hearing loss

　　The study found that the risk of hearing loss was significantly increased among people who did not clean their ears of earwax over a long period of time. In particular, those with narrow ear canals or high levels of earwax production were more likely to experience hearing loss due to earwax blockage.

　　Increased risk of ear canal infections

　　Excessive earwax provides a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to ear infections, such as otitis externa, if left uncleaned for a long period of time. Studies have shown that people who do not clean their ears regularly have nearly double the risk of ear infections than those who do.

　　Affecting inner ear balance

　　Excessive earwax may also affect the balance of the inner ear, leading to symptoms such as vertigo and tinnitus. This effect is especially significant in the elderly and may increase the risk of falls.

　　Long-term lack of cleaning linked to chronic ear disease

　　Studies have also found a strong association between long-term failure to clean earwax and the development of ear diseases such as chronic otitis media and tympanic membrane perforation. These diseases not only affect hearing, but may also lead to more serious complications.

　　Women need more attention

　　The study specifically pointed out that women are more prone to earwax accumulation and problems due to the relatively narrow structure of the ear canal. Women who do not remove earwax for a long period of time have a significantly higher risk of ear infections and other ear diseases than men.

　　Research Warnings and Recommendations

　　Ear health is equally important and should not be ignored. According to the above study, regular and scientific cleaning of earwax is the key to maintaining the health of the ear canal and preventing related diseases. Generally speaking, adults should have their ears cleaned every 2-3 months, but the exact frequency should be determined by the condition of the individual ear canal and the doctor's recommendation.

　　Everyone should take earwax management seriously and incorporate it into their daily hygiene routine. Using the right cleaning methods and tools to avoid over-cleaning or damaging the ear canal is the right way to keep your ears healthy. At the same time, you should seek medical attention and professional help for any abnormalities or discomfort in the ear canal.

　　In conclusion, earwax may be small, but it can cause big trouble if it is not cleaned for a long time. Let's pay as much attention to and take care of our ear health as we do to our sleep, and enjoy a clear and comfortable hearing world.