Coping with an itch in your inner ear can be extremely uncomfortable and disruptive. While your instinct might tempt you to use your finger or a small object to scratch the itch, it is critical to know the underlying cause first. Pinpointing the root cause of your ear itch will help you determine the safest and most effective way to address it.
What causes itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be triggered by numerous possible causes. Itchy ears can be safely relieved in a few possible ways depending on the cause.
The role of earwax
Your ear canals are lubricated and safeguarded by cerumen, or earwax. It plays an essential role in maintaining ear health. While too much earwax may need to be professionally removed, not enough earwax can cause dry itchy skin in your ear canal.
If your ears are dry and itchy, they can be addressed with an approved ear moisturizer.
The affect of swimming on ear health
If someone who swims a lot fails to take the proper precautions, they will often encounter itchy ears. Pollutants and germs can be encountered in water, and that includes chlorinated pools. If water stays trapped in your ears post-swimming, it can cause conditions like swimmer’s ear or eczema.
Keeping the ear canal dry by using a swimmer’s cap or earplugs will reduce the risk of infection.
Allergies and itchy ears
Itchy ears can be the result of allergies, including seasonal and food-based allergies. This reaction happens because histamines are discharged into the body during an allergic reaction, resulting in itching.
The allergy response and itching can be reduced by taking an antihistamine.
Fungal infections in the ear
Yet another trigger of itchy ears is fungal infections. This risk also pertains to swimmers and others because it thrives in warm and moist environments. Keeping your ears dry is essential in stopping fungal infections.
A specialist can prescribe you with ant-fungal medication in the case where a fungal infection is happening.
What are some preventative steps for itchy ears?
Knowing how to prevent itchy ears can save you from future discomfort. Here are a few proactive steps you can take to maintain 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 trigger ear itchiness. The discomfort of itchy ears can be averted by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to steer clear of them.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re bathing or showering, keep the water out by plugging your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
If you experience persistent or severe itching, it is always recommended to consult us, to ensure correct diagnosis and treatment.
