The earwax is a body fluid which is a sticky substance that is able to say plenty of things about a person’s health. Even though it’s really disgusting, the next time you clean your ears it’s very important to take a much closer look at your earwax.
The earwax is not just a dirty buildup in the ears. It is a substance that is created to prevent the dirt and bacteria from entering into our ear canal. In other words, the earwax is the thing that keeps the ears healthy and functional.
According to scientists, the earwax is a combination of squalene, alcohol, and long-chain fatty acids.
Find out what different wax colors say about the condition of your health
-Yellow, wet and sticky
This type of earwax is the most common type for adults. The wet and sticky texture is great for the protection of the ear canal and it also prevents becoming itchy and to dry out.
-Gray
Despite the fact that the gray earwax looks unusual and it doesn’t appear very often, you should not worry if you see gray earwax on the cotton swab.
The medical experts explain that the gray color usually happens as a result of the natural cleaning process of the ear. However, in case the wax is brittle and dry and if you feel itchiness in the ear, it could be an indication of eczema. If you experience these symptoms more frequently it is advisable to visit your doctor.
-Pale yellow
This earwax color is typical for kids. It is also very important to add that children tend to produce a lot more earwax than grown-ups. Over time, as they grow older, the production of earwax will gradually decrease.
-Sticky and dark
Sticky earwax, darker than usual, is indicating that the organism is perspiring more than it’s used to. Namely, in case you have darker earwax, you probably swat more than it’s usual for you, which might also lead to body odor. Despite that, the darker color of earwax is completely healthy.
-Dark and thick
Certain conditions, like anxiety and chronic stress, could cause the organism to produce an excessive amount of earwax. In addition to that, heavy sweating may also lead to increased production of earwax. In case the earwax is not removed, it could block the ear canal and cause temporary hearing impairment. Moreover, in case your earwax is dark and thick, it is very important to clean your ears regularly and on that way avoid complications. Dark and thick earwax is also an indication that you need to reduce stress and try to relax.
-Dry, white and flaky
While and flaky earwax that is also dry is a perfectly normal type of earwax and the doctors also explain that it is a sign that you are perfectly healthy. Those who have this type of earwax usually have less body odor than the ones who produce darker ear wax.
-Black or dark brown
Dark brown or black earwax looks quite scary but according to the doctors, there is nothing to worry about. The reason for the darker color of the earwax could be an overproduction of wax (similar to what happens when you are stressed). However, a darker color might also be an indication that the earwax has simply been in the ear for a longer period of time. The moment the wax is removed, the increased contact with oxygen is changing the color of the earwax.
-Wet and runny
According to the doctors, it is completely normal if the earwax comes out of our ears now and then, as that is part of the natural cleaning process. Still, if the earwax in large amounts pours out of your ears and if it contains pus or blood, it is an important warning sign that you have a perforated eardrum and you have to immediately seek medical attention.
-Bloody wax
In case you notice bloody wax you have to immediately get medical attention. Sometimes, the old earwax looks like dried blood, but in case there is blood, you might have a perforated eardrum.