Ear wax
Ear Wax
Ear wax, also known as cerumen (pronounced: seh-ROO-men), is a natural substance produced by glands in the skin of the outer ear canal. The primary purpose of ear wax is to protect the ear by trapping dust, microorganisms, and foreign particles, preventing them from reaching and potentially damaging the eardrum.
Etymology
The term "ear wax" is derived from Old English 'ēare', meaning 'ear', and 'weax', meaning 'wax'. The medical term "cerumen" is derived from Latin 'cera', meaning 'wax'.
Production and Function
Ear wax is produced by ceruminous and sebaceous glands in the outer ear canal. These glands secrete a mixture of fatty substances, alcohols, cholesterol, and squalene, which combine to form a sticky substance that we know as ear wax.
The primary function of ear wax is to protect the ear from damage and infections. It does this by trapping dust, bacteria, and other particles, preventing them from reaching the eardrum. Additionally, ear wax helps to lubricate the ear canal, preventing it from becoming dry and itchy.
Types of Ear Wax
There are two types of ear wax: wet and dry. Wet ear wax is typically sticky and yellow or brown in color, while dry ear wax is typically flaky and gray or white. The type of ear wax a person has is determined by genetics.
Related Terms
- Ceruminous gland: A type of sweat gland that produces cerumen or ear wax.
- Ear canal: The tube-like structure that leads from the outer ear to the eardrum.
- Eardrum: The thin membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear and vibrates in response to sound waves.
- Otitis externa: An infection of the outer ear canal, often caused by trapped water or by scratching the ear with an object.
- Ear irrigation: A procedure used to remove excess ear wax from the ear canal.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ear wax
- Wikipedia's article - Ear wax
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