Experiencing an itch in your inner ear can be extremely 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 root cause. Pinpointing the root cause of your ear itch will help you determine the safest and most effective method to address it.
What causes itchy ears?
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?
Your ear canals are lubricated and protected by cerumen, or earwax. It’s a significant part of the health of your ears. While an excessive buildup of earwax can obstruct hearing and may necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can result in dry and itchy skin in the ear canal.
If you experience discomfort due to dryness, utilizing a specialist-approved ear moisturizer can help restore balance and alleviate the itch.
How does swimming affect ear health?
If someone who swims a lot fails to take the appropriate precautions, they will often encounter 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.
Preventative steps, such as wearing a swim cap or using earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and decrease the risk of infections.
Allergies and itchy ears
Itchy ears can be caused by allergies, including seasonal and food-based allergies. This reaction happens because histamines are released into the body during an allergic response, triggering itching.
To manage this, using an antihistamine can help decrease the allergic response and subsequent itchiness.
In-ear fungal infections
Fungal infections are another potential cause of itchy ears. These infections can thrive in warm, humid environments and can also be a risk for frequent swimmers. Keeping your ears dry is essential in preventing fungal infections.
A specialist can prescribe you with ant-fungal medicine in the case where a fungal infection is present.
How can itchy ears be prevented?
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 maintain ear health:
- Keep Water Out: Utilize clean cotton balls to block water from entering your ears while showering or bathing.
- Manage Allergies: Limit exposure to allergens that can trigger ear itchiness. The discomfort of itchy ears can be averted by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to avoid them.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Avoid inserting hard objects into your ears, as they can irritate the sensitive skin.
If you experience persistent or extreme itching, it is always recommended to consult us, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.