Earwax that is black, green, or red in color may indicate a problem and warrants medical attention.
While earwax (cerumen) is a normal and healthy part of your body, certain colors can signal an underlying issue. Here's a breakdown of normal vs. potentially problematic earwax colors:
Normal Earwax Colors
- Yellow, Orange, or Brown: These colors are typically considered normal and healthy. The shade can vary depending on factors like age, environment, and individual body chemistry. Earwax protects the ear canal, traps dirt and debris, and has antibacterial properties.
Concerning Earwax Colors and What They Might Indicate
- Black: Black earwax, especially if accompanied by itching, pain, or hearing loss, could indicate an earwax blockage or fungal infection. It can also simply mean older, impacted earwax. A doctor should evaluate this.
- Green: Green earwax usually suggests an ear infection. This is especially true if you experience other symptoms like ear pain, swelling, or discharge.
- Red: Red earwax almost always indicates the presence of blood. This could be due to a scratch in the ear canal, a ruptured eardrum, or another injury. Seeking medical attention is important to determine the cause and prevent further complications.
| Color | Potential Meaning | When to Seek Medical Attention |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow | Normal | No need unless other concerning symptoms are present. |
| Orange | Normal | No need unless other concerning symptoms are present. |
| Brown | Normal | No need unless other concerning symptoms are present. |
| Black | Earwax blockage, fungal infection, impacted earwax | If accompanied by itching, pain, hearing loss, or discharge. |
| Green | Ear infection | Always, especially with pain, swelling, or discharge. |
| Red | Blood present (injury, ruptured eardrum, other cause) | Always, to determine the cause of the bleeding and prevent further complications. |
Important Note: It's best not to self-diagnose based solely on earwax color. If you are concerned about your earwax or experiencing any ear-related symptoms, consult a doctor or audiologist for a proper evaluation. Attempting to clean your ears excessively or using cotton swabs can often worsen earwax impaction and increase the risk of infection or injury.
