It can be very frustrating and uncomfortable when your ears are itching. While your instinct might tempt you to use your finger or a small object to scratch the itch, it is critical to know the underlying cause first. Identifying the root cause of your ear itch will help you determine the safest and most effective method to deal with it.
Itchy ear causes
There can be several inherent causes of itchy ears. 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’s a major part of the health of your ears. While an excessive buildup of earwax can impede hearing and may necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can result in dry and itchy skin in the ear canal.
If you experience discomfort due to dryness, using 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 fail to take the required precautions. Water, and that includes chlorinated pools, can harbor germs and pollutants that might result in ear infections. If water remains trapped in your ears after swimming, it can trigger conditions like swimmer’s ear or eczema.
Keeping the ear canal dry by wearing a swimmer’s cap or earplugs will reduce the risk of infection.
Allergies and itchy ears
Itchy ears can be caused by allergies, including seasonal and food-related allergies. This reaction occurs because histamines are discharged into the body during an allergic reaction, resulting in itching.
To address this, taking an antihistamine can help decrease the allergic response and subsequent itchiness.
In-ear fungal infections
Yet another trigger of itchy ears is fungal infections. These infections can thrive in warm, humid settings and can also be a risk for frequent swimmers. Preventing fungal infections is heavily dependent on keeping the ears clean and dry.
If you suspect a fungal infection, it is essential to consult a specialist who can prescribe suitable anti-fungal medication.
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 steps:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Avoid putting hard objects into your ears, as they can irritate the sensitive skin.
- Manage Allergies: Some allergens can cause your ears to itch, so reduce your exposure whenever possible. The discomfort of itchy ears can be avoided by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to avoid them.
- Keep Water Out: Use clean cotton balls to block water from entering your ears during showers or baths.
If you experience persistent or severe itching, it is always advisable to consult us, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.