Coping with an itch in your inner ear can be very uncomfortable and disruptive. While your instinct may lead you to use your finger or a little object to scratch the itch, it is essential to understand the underlying cause first. Identifying the safest and most effective way to handle the itch depends on determining the root cause.
Itchy ear causes
Itchy ears can be caused by numerous potential causes. Itchy ears can be safely relieved in a few possible ways depending on the cause.
Does earwax play a role?
Your ear canals are lubricated and protected by cerumen, or earwax. It’s an important part of the health of your ears. While an excessive accumulation of earwax can impede 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 impact ear health?
If someone who swims a lot fails to take the proper precautions, they will frequently encounter itchy ears. Water, including that in chlorinated pools, can harbor germs and pollutants that might lead to ear infections. If water stays trapped in your ears after swimming, it can trigger conditions like swimmer’s ear or eczema.
Preventative measures, like wearing a swim cap or using earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and reduce the risk of infections.
Can allergies trigger itchy ears?
Allergies, whether seasonal or related to certain foods or drinks, can lead to an itchy sensation in the ears. This reaction occurs because histamines are released into the body during an allergic reaction, leading to itching.
The allergy reaction and itching can be reduced by using an antihistamine.
In-ear fungal infections
Yet another trigger of itchy ears is fungal infections. This risk also applies to swimmers and others because it flourishes in warm and damp environments. Stopping fungal infections is strongly dependent on keeping the ears clean and dry.
A specialist can prescribe you with ant-fungal medication in the case where a fungal infection is present.
What are some preventative steps for itchy ears?
You can be relieved of itching in the ears by knowing how to avoid it in the first place. Here are a few proactive steps you can take to preserve ear health:
- Keep Water Out: Use clean cotton balls to stop water from getting into your ears while showering or bathing.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Avoid putting hard objects into your ears, as they can aggravate the sensitive skin.
- Manage Allergies: Some allergens can cause your ears to itch, so reduce your exposure whenever possible. The discomfort of itchy ears can be avoided by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to avoid them.
If you experience persistent or extreme itching, it is always advisable to consult us, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.