Earwax is a natural substance that regularly forms in the ear canal. However, it is worth considering how and why sulfur accumulates in the ears? After all, every process in the body and body is provided not in vain.
Causes and features of the appearance of earwax
Ear sulfur is a yellow-brown secretion in the external part of the ear canal, which is produced by special sulfur glands. It is not only in humans, but also in many mammals. The formation of sulfur is an absolutely natural process characteristic of a healthy person.
Sulfur glands are located in the outer ear. Each organ of hearing contains about 2000 of these glands.. Each month, the body can produce approximately 15 mg of sulfur. This indicator is approximate, since the physiological and individual characteristics of each person affect the amount of this substance. "Sulfur" is only a conditional name for secretion. It contains proteins, fats, mineral salts and fatty acids.
Distributed misconception that sulfur is an ear pollution that must be disposed of regularly. However, the presence of this substance in the ear is specifically provided by the body. It forms a kind of barrier that protects the auditory canal. Earwax is intended for lubrication of the auditory canal, its cleaning, as well as protection against insects and various bacteria.
Interesting fact: Despite the fact that cotton buds are considered ear buds by default, experts strongly recommend that you do not use them to clean the ear canal. This is fraught with bad consequences. Vata can be deep inside the ear - you have to get it at the doctor’s appointment. Also, the wand only pushes sulfur even deeper, to the eardrum, which can cause the aforementioned problems.
The composition and appearance of earwax
In humans, the composition and appearance of sulfur may vary. A large number of factors affect the secretion of this substance. These include, for example, place of residence or heredity. The earwax of the inhabitants of Asian countries has a drier structure in contrast to Europeans and Africans. This is caused by changes in the body, which adjusts to environmental conditions. The natural shade of earwax is tan. Its significant changes may indicate malfunctions in the body. It is worth to consult a specialist.
Functions of earwax in the human body
Earwax performs several important functions at once:
- Prevents the penetration of bacteria, harmful microorganisms into the ear canal;
- Protects the ear canal from water;
- Maintains at a normal level the balance of alkalis and acids;
- Prevents itching inside the ear that occurs as a result of dehydration;
- Cleans the ear canal from dead skin particles;
- Protects the ear canal from dust and insects.
Harm from sulfur
Earwax is beneficial if available in sufficient quantities.This must be monitored. If it is produced in excess, this is fraught with the occurrence of sulfur plugs. They block the ear canal, as a result of which there may be hearing problems, as well as pain. It is important to notice the first symptoms on time in order to seek qualified help, as well as regularly visit the otolaryngologist for preventive purposes.
How is sulfur removed from the ear?
The structure of the ear provides for the natural removal of excess sulfur to the outside. This occurs during chewing movements. However, many people are faced with the problem of sulfur accumulation, which has a scientific name - hypersecretion. This phenomenon may be due to several reasons. In particular, a tendency to hypersecretion is possible or the ear canal has a specific narrow shape. As a result, sulfur is poorly excreted.
But the main reason for the accumulation of sulfur in the ears is considered to be skin irritation of the ear canal. It can be caused by various actions and factors. Most often this is the use of cotton buds for cleaning ears, as well as the use of hearing aids. If the skin in the ear is irritated regularly, this phenomenon takes on a chronic form. As a result, sulfur begins to be produced and accumulate inside the ear canal with a vengeance.
Interesting fact: scientists tried to identify and prove the antibacterial properties of earwax back in 1980. In the United States, a study was conducted during which earwax was mixed with an alcohol solution and bacteria of various strains were placed there.As a result, sulfur had a bactericidal effect on all types of strains.
Earwax and trace mineral sulfur
Do not confuse earwax and sulfur in the form of a trace element that the human body needs. These are two completely different substances. Earwax is found only in the ear, where it benefits. As for the trace mineral, it is present in the body throughout the life of a person, but it is not produced by the body itself. It must be obtained from food. Only a small amount of sulfur is found in bones, hair, nails and joints. It is necessary for the synthesis of amino acids, the production of hormones and other important processes.
Sulfur in the ears is produced by sulfur glands located outside the ear canal. Its quantity, color and structure may vary depending on the individual characteristics of a person. Sulfur in the ears performs a protective, moisturizing and bactericidal function. Excess substances are removed naturally during chewing. The special structure of the ear canal and the tendency to hypersecretion cause an accumulation of sulfur. It can also be caused by the use of cotton buds and hearing aids.
