Q. What is cerumen?

Cerumen is a fatty, oily substance produced by theceruminous glands in outer part of ear canal. This compound is generally referred to as ear wax and, together with hairs in auditory canal, helps prevent foreign objects from reaching delicate eardrum. Dirt, dust, fungi, bacteria and other foreign dangers to the body all stick to wax and don't enter the ear. Ear wax also comprises a special enzyme, lysozyme that breaks down the cell walls of bacteria. In most individuals, ear canal is self-cleansing and there is not any need to remove ear wax. Though, ear wax may be impacted because of poor attempts at cleaning the ear. In such cases, impacted ear wax must be removed by a healthcare professional.