Nature’s Earwax Barrier: Protecting the Inner Ear and Preventing Pain in Unlikely Ways

Earwax is a natural substance that protects the delicate skin lining of the ear canal. It is composed of secretions from sweat and sebaceous glands, as well as skin dander. The sticky nature of earwax allows it to evenly coat the ear canal, providing an important layer of protection. However, excessive cleaning can cause irritation and pain due to exposure to cold air. In fact, the stickiness of earwax can also be beneficial in certain situations. For example, if an insect like a mosquito enters the ear, the sticky earwax can prevent it from reaching the sensitive eardrum and causing pain or damage.

Dr. Jaakko Pulkkinen, a chief doctor specializing in ear, nose, and throat diseases at Turku University Hospital and the University of Turku, highlights the importance of the tympanic membrane in hearing and its sensitivity to pain. He notes that earwax plays a protective role in this aspect as well by providing a barrier against harmful substances and bacteria that could otherwise enter the inner ear and cause damage or infection.

In addition to these important points about ear health and disease prevention, there seems to be a list of unrelated titles or topics from various websites scattered throughout this article. It is not clear how these relate to the discussion on earwax or how they add value to this particular piece of content.