Coping with an itch in your inner ear can be extremely uncomfortable and disruptive. Before you put your finger or an object into your ear attempting to scratch the itch, you should be aware of the underlying cause. Pinpointing the root cause of your ear itch will help you determine the safest and most effective way to deal with it.
Itchy ear causes
Itchy ears can be triggered by numerous possible causes. Itchy ears can be safely relieved in numerous possible ways depending on the cause.
Does earwax play a role?
Your ear canals are lubricated and protected by cerumen, or earwax. It plays an important role in preserving ear health. While an excessive accumulation of earwax can impede hearing and might necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can result in dry and itchy skin in the ear canal.
If your ears are dry and itchy, they can be treated with an approved ear moisturizer.
The affect of swimming on ear health
If somebody who swims a lot fails to take the proper precautions, they will frequently encounter itchy ears. Water, and that includes chlorinated pools, can hold germs and pollutants that may lead to ear infections. If water stays trapped in your ears after swimming, it can cause conditions like swimmer’s ear or eczema.
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 the result of allergies, including seasonal and food-related allergies. When your body responds to allergies, it produces histamines that can trigger itching.
To manage this, using an antihistamine can help decrease the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
In-ear fungal infections
Fungal infections are another potential cause of itchy ears. These infections can prosper in warm, humid spaces and can also be a risk for regular swimmers. Preventing fungal infections is strongly dependent on keeping the ears clean and dry.
A specialist can prescribe you with ant-fungal medication 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. Here are some proactive measures you can take to maintain ear health:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can irritate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using them.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re bathing or showering, keep the water out by blocking your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
- Manage Allergies: Reduce exposure to allergens that can cause ear itchiness. Understanding your allergens and taking measures to avoid them can lessen the discomfort associated with itchy ear canals.
Consult us for a diagnosis and proper treatment if you’re experiencing severe or persistent itching in your ears.