It can be really irritating and uncomfortable when your ears are itching. Before you stick your finger or an object into your ear attempting to scratch the itch, you should be aware of the underlying cause. Identifying the safest and most effective way to handle the itch depends on determining the underlying cause.
What causes itchy ears?
There can be numerous inherent causes of itchy ears. Depending on the cause, there are ways to help safely relieve it.
Does earwax play a role?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural material manufactured by your ears to protect and lubricate the ear canal. It plays a vital role in preserving ear health. While an excessive buildup of earwax can obstruct hearing and might necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can lead to dry and itchy skin in the ear canal.
If you experience discomfort as a consequence of dryness, utilizing a specialist-approved ear moisturizer can help return balance and alleviate the itch.
How does swimming impact ear health?
Regular swimmers often experience itchy ears if they don’t take the required precautions. Pollutants and germs can be encountered in water, and that includes chlorinated pools. 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 utilizing earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and minimize the risk of infections.
Allergies and itchy ears
Allergies, whether seasonal or due to certain 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 manage this, using an antihistamine can help reduce the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
In-ear fungal infections
Fungal infections are another possible cause of itchy ears. These infections can thrive in warm, humid spaces and can also be a risk for regular swimmers. Preventing 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.
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. Here are some proactive steps you can take to preserve ear health:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can aggravate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using them.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re taking a bath 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 reduce your exposure whenever you can. The discomfort of itchy ears can be averted by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to avoid them.
Consult us for a diagnosis and proper treatment if you’re experiencing severe or persistent itching in your ears.