Coping with an itch in your inner ear can be very uncomfortable and disruptive. Before you put your finger or an object into your ear in an attempt to scratch the itch, you should be aware of the underlying cause. Pinpointing the safest and most effective way to handle the itch depends on determining the root cause.
Itchy ear causes
There can be numerous inherent causes of itchy ears. Itchy ears can be safely relieved in a number of possible ways depending on the cause.
Does earwax play a role?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural compound produced by your ears to protect and lubricate the ear canal. It plays an important role in preserving ear health. While an excessive accumulation of earwax can obstruct hearing and may necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can lead to dry and itchy skin in the ear canal.
If your ears are dry and itchy, they can be addressed with an approved ear moisturizer.
How does swimming affect ear health?
If someone who swims a lot fails to take the proper precautions, they will frequently experience itchy ears. Pollutants and germs can be found in water, and that includes chlorinated pools. Conditions like eczema and swimmers ear can be the consequence of water that gets trapped in the ears.
Keeping the ear canal dry by using a swimmer’s cap or earplugs will lessen the risk of infection.
Allergies and itchy ears
Allergies, whether seasonal or related to certain foods or drinks, can contribute to an itchy sensation in the ears. When your body reacts to allergies, it releases histamines that can cause itching.
To address this, using an antihistamine can help reduce the allergic response and subsequent itchiness.
Fungal infections in the ear
Fungal infections are another potential cause of ear itching. This risk also applies to swimmers and others because it thrives in warm and moist environments. Preventing fungal infections is heavily dependent on keeping the ears clean and dry.
If you think you might have a fungal infection, it is important to consult a specialist who can prescribe proper anti-fungal medication.
What are some preventative measures for itchy ears?
You can be relieved of itching in the ears by being aware of how to avoid it in the first place. Maintain ear health by taking these proactive steps:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can irritate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using them.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re taking a bath or showering, keep the water out by plugging your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
- Manage Allergies: Some allergens can cause your ears to itch, so reduce your exposure whenever you can. The discomfort of itchy ears can be prevented by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to avoid them.
Consult us for a diagnosis and effective treatment if you’re experiencing extreme or persistent itching in your ears.