Earwax is often overlooked, but changes in its colour can provide insight into your ear health. While typical earwax ranges from yellow to light brown, unusual shades can sometimes indicate infections or other underlying issues.
Understanding Earwax
Known medically as cerumen, earwax is produced naturally by glands in the ear canal to trap dust, bacteria, and other irritants. It protects your ears while helping maintain a clean canal. Changes in colour, texture, or volume may signal that your ears need attention.
Red or Bloody Earwax
Earwax tinged with red or blood can result from minor scratches or irritation. However, persistent bleeding or unusual discharge should be checked promptly. In rare cases, it could be a symptom of serious conditions, including tumours in the ear canal, so it’s important to seek professional advice if bleeding continues.
Green and Black Earwax
Green earwax may suggest a bacterial infection, often accompanied by itching, swelling, or pus. Black earwax could indicate a fungal infection, accumulated debris, or simply older wax that has not been removed for some time.
Dark brown or orange wax is sometimes caused by dry skin or prolonged exposure to dust. While these changes are not always serious, sudden shifts in colour, consistency, or smell warrant attention.
When to See a Professional
If you notice unusual earwax accompanied by pain, hearing loss, or discharge, it’s important to get it checked by a qualified medical professional or audiologist. Excess wax can sometimes contribute to temporary hearing difficulties or tinnitus, but professional removal by an audiologist is safe and effective. Contact us to book a wax removal appointment by microsuction today!
Key Points
- Normal earwax is usually yellow to light brown.
- Red or bloody earwax may indicate irritation or more serious issues.
- Green or black earwax can suggest bacterial or fungal infections.
- Sudden changes in colour, smell, or texture should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
- Regular ear checks and safe wax removal help maintain healthy hearing.
If you’re suffering from blocked ears due to a wax build up or perhaps you are concerned about the colour of your ear wax, contact us today to book a microsuction ear wax removal appointment on 0333 011 7717 or email us at hello@gatwickaudiology.co.uk.
References
- NHS – Earwax Build-Up and Removal: Guidance on managing earwax accumulation, safe removal methods, and when to see a GP.
- Healthy Hearing – Earwax Blockage: Explains the health implications of different earwax colours and their impact on hearing.
- Cancer Research UK – Ear Cancer Symptoms: Information on ear cancer warning signs, including bleeding from the ear.
- Guide to Earwax Colour and Ear Health: Explains what various earwax colours may indicate and how they relate to overall hearing health.
