Coping with an itch in your inner ear can be highly uncomfortable and distracting. While your instinct may tempt you to use your finger or a little object to scratch the itch, it is essential to know the root cause first. Pinpointing the safest and most effective way to deal with the itch depends on determining the underlying cause.
Itchy ear causes
Itchy ears can be caused by several potential causes. Depending on the cause, there are methods to help safely relieve it.
Does earwax play a role?
Your ear canals are lubricated and safeguarded by cerumen, or earwax. It plays a vital role in preserving ear health. While too much earwax might 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
Frequent swimmers often encounter itchy ears if they don’t take the required precautions. Water, and that includes chlorinated pools, can hold germs and pollutants that might lead to ear infections. Conditions like eczema and swimmers ear can be the consequence of water that gets trapped in the ears.
Keeping the ear canal dry by using a swimmer’s cap or earplugs will lessen the risk of infection.
Can allergies cause itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be caused by allergies, including seasonal and food-based allergies. This reaction happens because histamines are released into the body during an allergic response, leading to itching.
The allergy response and itching can be reduced by taking an antihistamine.
Fungal infections in the ear
Fungal infections are another possible cause of ear itching. These infections can prosper in warm, humid environments and can also be a risk for regular swimmers. Stopping fungal infections is strongly 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 prevent it in the first place. Here are some proactive steps you can take to maintain ear health:
- Manage Allergies: Reduce exposure to allergens that can trigger ear itchiness. The discomfort of itchy ears can be avoided by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to avoid them.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can irritate the sensitive skin in your ears, so avoid using 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.