Is earwax really wax?
No, earwax isn’t really wax. It gets its name from its waxy consistency. But earwax mostly consists of sebum (a secretion made of fat, skin cells, dirt and sweat).
Why did a ball of wax just come out of my ear?
Your ears are self-cleaning organs. Eventually, excess wax will fall out of your ear and your ear will make new wax. This is totally normal and healthy.
Why do my ears feel wet?
If your ears ever feel wet, it’s often just because they’re making more earwax. When first produced, earwax is thin, clear and watery. But as time goes on, it becomes thicker and darker.
However, if you develop additional symptoms like ear pain or fever, call a healthcare provider. Watery ears could mean you have an infection or a ruptured eardrum.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Most of us don’t spend a lot of time thinking about earwax. But it plays an important role in ear health. It keeps your skin lubricated and protects your ears from germs and infections. To keep your ears healthy, avoid using cotton swabs or other devices that you stick inside your ear canal. Instead, focus on cleaning your outer ear with a washcloth and let your body do the rest. If you develop excessive earwax, ask your healthcare provider about safe ways to remove it.
