Experiencing an itch in your inner ear can be highly uncomfortable and distracting. While your instinct might tempt you to use your finger or a little object to scratch the itch, it is crucial to know the root cause first. Pinpointing the safest and most effective way to handle the itch depends on determining the underlying cause.
Itchy ear causes
There can be several underlying causes of itchy ears. Itchy ears can be safely alleviated in a few potential ways depending on the cause.
The role of earwax
Your ear canals are lubricated and protected by cerumen, or earwax. It’s a major part of the health of your ears. While an excessive buildup of earwax can hinder hearing and may necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can cause dry and itchy skin in the ear canal.
If you experience discomfort as a consequence of dryness, using a specialist-approved ear moisturizer can help return balance and alleviate the itch.
How does swimming impact 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 encountered in water, and that includes chlorinated pools. Conditions like eczema and swimmers ear can be the result of water that gets trapped in the ears.
Preventative measures, like wearing a swim cap or utilizing earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and reduce the risk of infections.
Allergies and itchy ears
Allergies, whether seasonal or related to certain foods or drinks, can lead to an itchy sensation in the ears. This reaction happens because histamines are discharged into the body during an allergic response, triggering itching.
The allergy response and itching can be reduced by using an antihistamine.
Fungal infections in the ear
Yet another cause of itchy ears is fungal infections. This risk also pertains to swimmers and others because it flourishes in warm and damp environments. Stopping fungal infections is heavily dependent on keeping the ears clean and dry.
A specialist can prescribe you with ant-fungal medicine 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. Preserve ear health by taking these proactive measures:
- Manage Allergies: Limit exposure to allergens that can cause ear itchiness. Understanding your allergens and taking measures to avoid them can lessen the discomfort connected to itchy ear canals.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can irritate the sensitive skin in your ears, so avoid using them.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re taking a bath or showering, keep the water out by blocking your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
Consult us for a diagnosis and effective treatment if you’re experiencing severe or persistent itching in your ears.
