Ear wax or cerumen is produced normally by special glands in the outer part of the ear canal. Its purpose is to protect the ear from damage and infections. Cerumen coats the skin of the ear canal to trap dust and other small particles, and act as a water repellent. Normally, a small amount of wax accumulates in the ear and is carried out of the ear canal by the natural skin migration out of the ear.

The skin of the ear canal migrates out from the eardrum to the ear canal opening, carrying with it ear wax and any trapped debris such as dead skin cells, dust, and other tiny particles

Excessive ear wax can cause:

• Earache
• A sense of fullness in the ears
• Hearing problems
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Coughing
• Itchiness