Ever Wonder Why One Ear Has More Wax Than The Other

This is going to fall in the 'too much information' category and is likely going to sound a little gross. However, you're here reading this, so I have a hunch you may be able to relate. In the last few weeks, I have noticed that my right ear seems to be producing WAY more wax than my left ear. Is that even possible?

Well, if you look at any Q-tip I have used in the last month, they would confirm that it's indeed possible and happening. I clean my ears at least twice daily. My left ear is incredibly low maintenance. It actually behaves like it's cleaned twice a day. My right ear, on the other hand (or lobe), looks like it could be the poster child for the Yankee Candle Company. What on Earth?  Why is this happening? Is this even a thing?

The short answer is "Yes!" Like you, I journeyed to the internet to find the answers. In fact, when I typed in "Why does one ear", the very first question that auto-appeared was "Why does one ear have more wax than the other?" At it happens, it's not all that uncommon.

WHY DO OUR EARS HAVE WAX IN THEM?

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There's a great article on AdvancedHealthline.com that dives in. First of all, I have no idea how valid the stories there are. But, the fact they they tackled the topic means a lot of other folks have experienced the same thing. As it turns out, there are a variety of causes for more wax in one ear than the other- slight differences in the shape and size of the ears, or possibly an overactive ceruminous gland on one side. Those glands are responsible for producing the wax, which is necessary for debris removal and protecting against germs.

WHAT IS EARWAX?

And, I know. I know. You're not really supposed to use something like a Q-tip to clean out your ears. When I was on a European vacation recently, I just started drying out my ears with a Kleenex. I despise it when my ears feel wet.

However, a Q-tip definitely works at eradicating wax from your ears and experts suggest paying attention to the color of the wax. And, look! I warned you this was going to be a little gross. But, it's important.

WHAT COLOR IS EAR WAX SUPPOSED TO BE?

Well, I have to go now. After researching this topic and seeing what the internet experts have to say about it, I need to go grab a Q-tip. There's a lot of wax in my right ear for some reason and it may be trying to tell me something.