Experiencing an itch in your inner ear can be extremely uncomfortable and distracting. While your instinct may lead you to use your finger or a little object to scratch the itch, it is crucial to understand the root cause first. Identifying the root cause of your ear itch will help you figure out the safest and most effective way to deal with it.
What triggers itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be triggered by several possible causes. Depending on the cause, there are ways to help safely relieve it.
The role of earwax
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural compound manufactured by your ears to protect and lubricate the ear canal. It’s an important part of the health of your ears. While an excessive accumulation of earwax can obstruct hearing and might necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can cause 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 impact ear health?
Frequent swimmers often encounter itchy ears if they don’t take the required precautions. Pollutants and germs can be encountered 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 wearing a swimmer’s cap or earplugs will decrease the risk of infection.
Can allergies cause itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be the result of allergies, including seasonal and food-related allergies. This reaction takes place because histamines are released into the body during an allergic response, leading to itching.
The allergy reaction and itching can be decreased by using an antihistamine.
Fungal infections in the ear
Fungal infections are another potential cause of itchy ears. This risk also pertains to swimmers and others because it thrives in warm and damp environments. Stopping 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 suitable anti-fungal medication.
How can itchy ears be prevented?
You can be relieved of itching in the ears by being aware of how to avoid it in the first place. Here are some proactive measures you can take to maintain ear health:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Avoid putting hard objects into your ears, as they can aggravate the sensitive skin.
- Manage Allergies: Limit exposure to allergens that can trigger ear itchiness. The discomfort of itchy ears can be avoided by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to avoid them.
- Keep Water Out: Utilize clean cotton balls to stop water from getting into your ears while showering or bathing.
If you’re dealing with persistent or severe itching, it is always advisable to consult us, to ensure correct diagnosis and treatment.
