Experiencing an itch in your inner ear can be highly uncomfortable and disruptive. Before you put your finger or an object into your ear attempting to scratch the itch, you need to be aware of the underlying cause. Pinpointing the root cause of your ear itch will help you determine the safest and most effective way to address it.
What causes itchy ears?
There can be several inherent causes of itchy ears. Itchy ears can be safely alleviated in numerous possible ways depending on the cause.
Does earwax play a role?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural compound produced by your ears to safeguard and lubricate the ear canal. It’s an important part of the health of your ears. 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 appropriate precautions, they will frequently encounter itchy ears. Water, including that in chlorinated pools, can hold 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 reduce the risk of infections.
Can allergies trigger itchy ears?
Allergies, whether seasonal or related to specific foods or drinks, can contribute to an itchy sensation in the ears. When your body responds to allergies, it releases histamines that can trigger itching.
To manage this, taking an antihistamine can help reduce the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
Fungal infections in the ear
Yet another trigger of itchy ears is fungal infections. These infections can prosper in warm, humid environments 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 medication in the case where a fungal infection is happening.
How can itchy ears be avoided?
You can be relieved of itching in the ears by being aware of how to prevent it in the first place. Maintain ear health by taking these proactive steps:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can aggravate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using them.
- Manage Allergies: Reduce 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: Use clean cotton balls to block water from entering your ears while showering or bathing.
Consult us for a diagnosis and effective treatment if you’re experiencing severe or persistent itching in your ears.