It can be very aggravating and uncomfortable when your ears are itching. While your instinct may tempt you to use your finger or a small object to scratch the itch, it is crucial to know the underlying cause first. Pinpointing the safest and most effective way to handle the itch depends on determining the underlying cause.
Itchy ear triggers
Itchy ears can be triggered by several potential causes. Depending on the cause, there are strategies to help safely relieve it.
Does earwax play a role?
Your ear canals are lubricated and safeguarded by cerumen, or earwax. It plays an essential role in maintaining ear health. While an excessive buildup of earwax can hinder hearing and may 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 addressed with an approved ear moisturizer.
How does swimming affect ear health?
Regular swimmers often experience itchy ears if they don’t take the necessary precautions. Pollutants and germs can be encountered in water, and that includes chlorinated pools. Conditions like eczema and swimmers ear can be the consequence of water that gets trapped in the ears.
Preventative measures, like wearing a swim cap or utilizing earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and reduce the risk of infections.
Can allergies trigger itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be caused by allergies, including seasonal and food-based allergies. This reaction takes place because histamines are discharged into the body during an allergic reaction, leading to itching.
The allergy reaction and itching can be decreased by using an antihistamine.
In-ear fungal infections
Fungal infections are another potential cause of itchy ears. This risk also pertains to swimmers and others because it flourishes in warm and damp environments. Preventing fungal infections is heavily 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 suitable anti-fungal medication.
How can itchy ears be avoided?
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:
- Keep Water Out: When you’re bathing or showering, keep the water out by blocking your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
- Manage Allergies: Some allergens can cause your ears to itch, so limit your exposure whenever you can. Understanding your allergens and taking steps to steer clear of them can prevent the discomfort connected to itchy ear canals.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can irritate the sensitive skin in your ears, so avoid using them.
If you experience persistent or severe itching, it is always recommended to consult us, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
