What is oily earwax? Can it be cured?

Oily ears refer to cerumen with an oily or greasy consistency. This condition may result from physiological factors, or it could be caused by pathological conditions such as external otitis or furuncles. Whether it can be cured depends on the underlying cause.

I. Physiological Factors

If a person frequently stays up late or regularly consumes spicy and stimulating foods, it may lead to endocrine imbalance, which in turn causes excessive secretion of ear canal oils, resulting in oily cerumen. This is generally considered a normal physiological phenomenon. There is no definitive way to prevent or treat it completely; however, maintaining proper ear hygiene usually helps prevent its occurrence.

II. Pathological Factors

1. External Otitis

This may occur when the working or living environment is excessively damp, creating favorable conditions for bacterial or viral growth. Infection of the external auditory canal by bacteria or viruses can irritate the ear canal and increase secretions. Treatment should be directed at the specific cause under medical guidance. For instance, if caused by bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate or inhibit bacterial growth, control the infection, and relieve symptoms. Commonly used medications include ofloxacin otic drops, ciprofloxacin otic drops, and lomefloxacin hydrochloride otic drops. With appropriate treatment, this condition is usually curable.

2. Furuncle (Ear Canal Boil)

This may result from infection of the ear by Staphylococcus aureus, causing inflammatory damage to hair follicles and surrounding tissues, leading to acute suppurative lesions and the discharge of pus. Under medical supervision, antibiotic therapy is typically recommended to suppress the progression of the furuncle and promote its resolution. Commonly prescribed medications include amoxicillin capsules, cefixime capsules, and levofloxacin capsules. With active treatment, this condition is generally curable.

In addition, middle ear infections (otitis media) may also be responsible. It is recommended to undergo relevant examinations under medical guidance to determine the exact cause and initiate timely treatment to prevent disease progression and potential complications.