Experiencing an itch in your inner ear can be highly 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 root cause first. Pinpointing the safest and most effective way to handle the itch depends on determining the root cause.
What causes itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be triggered by numerous possible causes. Depending on the cause, there are methods to help safely relieve it.
Does earwax play a role?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural compound manufactured 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 result in dry itchy skin in your ear canal.
If you experience discomfort as a consequence of dryness, using a specialist-approved ear moisturizer can help restore balance and relieve the itch.
How does swimming affect ear health?
If somebody who swims a lot fails to take the appropriate precautions, they will frequently encounter itchy ears. Pollutants and germs can be encountered in water, and that includes chlorinated pools. If water remains trapped in your ears after swimming, it can result in 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 minimize the risk of infections.
Can allergies trigger itchy ears?
Allergies, whether seasonal or related to specific foods or drinks, can lead to an itchy sensation in the ears. When your body responds to allergies, it produces histamines that can trigger itching.
To address this, taking an antihistamine can help decrease the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
In-ear fungal infections
Yet another trigger of itchy ears is fungal infections. This risk also applies to swimmers and others because it flourishes in warm and damp environments. 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 prevent it in the first place. Here are some proactive steps you can take to preserve ear health:
- Keep Water Out: Use clean cotton balls to stop water from entering your ears during showers or baths.
- Manage Allergies: Some allergens can cause your ears to itch, so limit your exposure whenever you can. The discomfort of itchy ears can be averted by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to steer clear of them.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can irritate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using them.
If you experience persistent or severe itching, it is always advisable to consult us, to ensure correct diagnosis and treatment.