Earwax
Earwax (also known as cerumen) is a natural substance produced by glands in the ear canal. It has protective, lubricating, and antibacterial properties.
Pronunciation
- Earwax: /ˈɪərwæks/
- Cerumen: /sɪˈruːmən/
Etymology
The term "earwax" is derived from Old English 'ēare', meaning 'ear', and 'weax', meaning 'wax'. The medical term "cerumen" is derived from Latin 'cera', meaning 'wax'.
Function
Earwax is produced by ceruminous glands in the ear canal. Its primary functions are to lubricate the ear canal and to provide a protective barrier against external particles such as dust, bacteria, and insects.
Types
There are two types of earwax: wet and dry. Wet earwax is brown and sticky, while dry earwax is gray and flaky. The type of earwax a person has is determined by their genetics.
Related Terms
- Ceruminous glands: The glands in the ear canal that produce earwax.
- Ear canal: The tube-like structure that leads from the outer ear to the eardrum.
- Eardrum: The membrane that separates the ear canal from the middle ear.
- Otitis externa: An inflammation of the outer ear and ear canal, often caused by excessive earwax.
- Ceruminosis: The excessive accumulation of earwax in the ear canal.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Earwax
- Wikipedia's article - Earwax
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