Earwax Buildup in Kids

Ear wax is a soft, natural substance, officially known as cerumen, that is excreted by skin glands inside the ear. While people of all ages are constantly producing ear wax, it can often buildup particularly in kids, causing much concern for parents. Those parents need not fret. Ear wax buildup is completely normal and is usually not harmful unless it gets out of hand. Concerned parents should see a doctor if they are scared about the wax buildup, and they can also learn a bit more about it so they will know if they need to be alarmed.

Function

As disgusting as it may appear, ear wax is actually quite useful. Ear wax acts as a water repellent and also keeps the ear canal and ear drum protected. Any foreign object, be it dust, bacteria or gnats or small insects, get trapped in the ear wax before getting inside to damage the ear. The ear wax then dries out and falls out, keeping the ear clean. Ear wax can be especially beneficial for kids, since they don't always have the knowledge or wherewithal to clean out something that blows into their ears.

Warning

If ear wax does buildup to a point that it is blocking the ear canal, it can cause a number of problems. Kids can suffer from partial hearing loss, depending on how much wax is built up. Excessive ear wax can also lead to pain, as the wax can become very hard and abrasive while it's lodged in the sensitive ear canal. Since the ears share the same nerves with the throat, excessive wax can also lead to coughing or a tickle in the throat area.

Misconceptions

Ear wax in kids is not necessarily a bad thing. Having too much ear wax, in fact, can be more beneficial than having none at all. The only time parents should be concerned is if the ear wax builds up so heavily that it is blocking the ear canal completely and making it difficult to hear. Parents should ideally never have to clean out children's ear wax, as the wax dries out and falls away by itself.

Treatment

If too much wax does build up, parents should never probe and poke at it, as that can drive the wax deeper into the ear canal. Using a cotton swab is also a bad idea, as it can be lodged too deep or the child can suddenly move and the swab can puncture the ear drum. Irrigation is a safe way to get rid excess ear wax if that becomes a necessity. Parents can tip the child's head to the side and fill the ear canal with baby oil, hydrogen peroxide or mineral oil through an eyedropper. Keep the head tilted for about five minutes, then straighten the head, placing a towel outside the ear to collect the liquid that escapes.

Considerations

If a child is constantly pulling, rubbing or bothering with his ears, he could be suffering from ear wax buildup---or an ear infection. If it is from the wax, parents may note a visible buildup or a drainage that is yellow or brown. On the other hand, if the child is suffering from an ear infection, ear drainage may be clear, bloody or milky and be accompanied by a fever and trouble sleeping.