Why is my earwax wet?

Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is typically dry in some people, appearing flaky or powdery, and easily脱落 (falls off) naturally or is expelled during chewing. If your earwax is wet, it may indicate the following situations: 1. **Secretory Type**: Some individuals have ceruminous glands that secrete more earwax with a wetter consistency, which is a difference in individual physical condition. 2. **Excessive Secretion**: Overproduction of earwax may be related to genetic factors or caused by irritation of the ceruminous glands, such as frequent use of cotton swabs or other objects to clean the ears. 3. **Infection or Inflammation**: Wet earwax accompanied by odor, redness, or pain may be a symptom of external otitis (swimmer's ear), usually caused by bacterial or fungal infection. 4. **Ear Canal Eczema**: Eczema can cause wet earwax, accompanied by itching and redness of the skin. 5. **Abnormal Secretions**: If the earwax appears yellowish-green or contains blood streaks, it may indicate otitis media or other ear conditions, and prompt medical attention is required. Note that any changes or abnormalities in earwax condition should be taken seriously, and timely consultation with a doctor is important to ensure ear health.