Cerumen, or earwax, is a natural barrier in the ear canal trapping dust, bacteria, and other debris to protect our ears. The normal course of the wax is to migrate out of the ear as the skin cells that line the ear canal grow outward. However, it can sometimes accumulate excessively, leading to occlusion and some individuals are more prone to this than others.
Factors surch as wearing hearing aids, or frequently using earplugs or earbuds, and having narrow ear canals can prevent wax from being shed naturally. Additionally, using items like cotton buds can push it deeper into the canal, causing impaction and leading to reduced hearing.