Experiencing an itch in your inner ear can be extremely uncomfortable and distracting. Before you put your finger or an object into your ear in an attempt 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 method to deal with it.
What causes itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be triggered by numerous possible causes. Depending on the cause, there are ways to help safely relieve it.
Does earwax play a role?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural compound produced by your ears to protect and lubricate the ear canal. It plays an important role in maintaining ear health. While too much earwax might need to be professionally removed, not enough earwax can lead to dry itchy skin in your ear canal.
If your ears are dry and itchy, they can be addressed with an approved ear moisturizer.
How does swimming impact 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 harbor germs and pollutants that might lead to ear infections. Conditions like eczema and swimmers ear can be the result of water that gets trapped in the ears.
Preventative measures, like wearing a swim cap or using earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and minimize the risk of infections.
Can allergies cause itchy ears?
Allergies, whether seasonal or related to certain foods or drinks, can contribute to an itchy sensation in the ears. This reaction takes place because histamines are discharged into the body during an allergic reaction, resulting in itching.
To manage this, taking an antihistamine can help reduce the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
Fungal infections in the ear
Yet another cause of itchy ears is fungal infections. These infections can thrive in warm, humid environments and can also be a risk for frequent swimmers. Preventing fungal infections is heavily 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 happening.
How can itchy ears be prevented?
You can be relieved of itching in the ears by being aware of how to avoid it in the first place. Preserve ear health by taking these proactive measures:
- Manage Allergies: Limit exposure to allergens that can cause ear itchiness. Understanding your allergens and taking steps to steer clear of them can lessen the discomfort associated with itchy ear canals.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re bathing or showering, keep the water out by plugging your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can aggravate the sensitive skin in your ears, so avoid using them.
Consult us for a diagnosis and proper treatment if you’re experiencing extreme or persistent itching in your ears.