Coping with an itch in your inner ear can be very uncomfortable and distracting. Before you stick your finger or an object into your ear in an attempt to scratch the itch, you should be aware of the root cause. 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 several possible causes. Itchy ears can be safely relieved in numerous potential ways depending on the cause.
Does earwax play a role?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural compound manufactured by your ears to protect and lubricate the ear canal. It’s a significant part of the health of your ears. While too much earwax might need to be professionally removed, not enough earwax can cause dry itchy skin in your ear canal.
If you feel discomfort due to dryness, using a specialist-approved ear moisturizer can help return balance and alleviate the itch.
How does swimming affect ear health?
If somebody who swims a lot fails to take the proper precautions, they will often experience itchy ears. Water, including that in chlorinated pools, can hold germs and pollutants that may lead to ear infections. If water stays trapped in your ears after swimming, it can result in conditions like swimmer’s ear or eczema.
Keeping the ear canal dry by wearing a swimmer’s cap or earplugs will reduce the risk of infection.
Allergies and itchy ears
Allergies, whether seasonal or due to specific foods or drinks, can contribute to an itchy sensation in the ears. This reaction happens because histamines are released into the body during an allergic reaction, triggering itching.
To address this, taking an antihistamine can help reduce the allergic response and subsequent itchiness.
Fungal infections in the ear
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. Preventing fungal infections is strongly dependent on keeping the ears clean and dry.
If you think you might have a fungal infection, it is essential to consult a specialist who can prescribe proper 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. Maintain ear health by taking these proactive measures:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Avoid putting hard objects into your ears, as they can irritate the sensitive skin.
- Keep Water Out: Use clean cotton balls to block water from getting into your ears while showering or bathing.
- 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 correct diagnosis and treatment.