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What Causes Ear Wax ?

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Posted on Mon, 10 Feb 2014
Question: I have been having alot ear wax in one ear more than every . What causes that and What is it
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Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail (1 hour later)
Brief Answer: Please find detailed answer below Detailed Answer: Hi Hollycopeland94, Thanks for writing in to us. Ear wax is a substance produced by the small glands lining the external ear canal forming a mixture with old skin cells and fine hair. The clinical term for earwax is cerumen. This wax has a protective function and prevents dust and foreign bodies from entering the ear. It is produced in small quantities in every one but some people may have more wax in their ear then others. The amount of wax produced depends on genetic factors much like your height and hair. More wax in one ear can be due to factors like trying to remove wax, this can push the deeper wax inside and cause impaction. Another common cause of more wax in one ear s regular use of ear plugs and headphones. This prevents the wax from clearing up naturally. Most of the wax comes out on its own but in some people the shape of the ear canal may hold back the wax leading to blockage. Hope your query is answered. Do write back if you have any doubts. Regards, Dr.Vivek
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Vivek Chail

Radiologist

Practicing since :2002

Answered : 6874 Questions

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What Causes Ear Wax ?

Brief Answer: Please find detailed answer below Detailed Answer: Hi Hollycopeland94, Thanks for writing in to us. Ear wax is a substance produced by the small glands lining the external ear canal forming a mixture with old skin cells and fine hair. The clinical term for earwax is cerumen. This wax has a protective function and prevents dust and foreign bodies from entering the ear. It is produced in small quantities in every one but some people may have more wax in their ear then others. The amount of wax produced depends on genetic factors much like your height and hair. More wax in one ear can be due to factors like trying to remove wax, this can push the deeper wax inside and cause impaction. Another common cause of more wax in one ear s regular use of ear plugs and headphones. This prevents the wax from clearing up naturally. Most of the wax comes out on its own but in some people the shape of the ear canal may hold back the wax leading to blockage. Hope your query is answered. Do write back if you have any doubts. Regards, Dr.Vivek