Coping with an itch in your inner ear can be highly uncomfortable and distracting. While your instinct may lead you to use your finger or a little object to scratch the itch, it is critical to know the root cause first. Identifying the safest and most effective way to handle the itch depends on determining the underlying cause.
What triggers itchy ears?
There can be a few inherent causes of itchy ears. Itchy ears can be safely relieved in a few potential ways depending on the cause.
Does earwax play a role?
Your ear canals are lubricated and protected by cerumen, or earwax. It plays a vital role in preserving ear health. While too much earwax may need to be professionally removed, not enough earwax can result in dry itchy skin in your ear canal.
If you experience discomfort as a consequence of dryness, utilizing a specialist-approved ear moisturizer can help restore balance and relieve the itch.
How does swimming affect ear health?
Frequent swimmers often encounter itchy ears if they fail to take the necessary precautions. Water, and that includes chlorinated pools, can harbor germs and pollutants that may result in ear infections. Conditions like eczema and swimmers ear can be the consequence of water that gets trapped in the ears.
Preventative measures, such as wearing a swim cap or using earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and decrease the risk of infections.
Can allergies cause itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be caused by allergies, including seasonal and food-based allergies. When your body reacts to allergies, it produces histamines that can cause itching.
To address this, taking an antihistamine can help decrease the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
Fungal infections in the ear
Fungal infections are another potential cause of itchy ears. These infections can prosper in warm, humid settings and can also be a risk for frequent swimmers. Stopping fungal infections is strongly dependent on keeping the ears clean and dry.
If you suspect 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 knowing how to avoid it in the first place. Here are a few proactive steps you can take to preserve ear health:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can aggravate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using them.
- Manage Allergies: Limit exposure to allergens that can cause ear itchiness. The discomfort of itchy ears can be prevented by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to avoid them.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re bathing or showering, keep the water out by plugging your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
Consult us for a diagnosis and effective treatment if you’re experiencing extreme or persistent itching in your ears.
