Experiencing an itch in your inner ear can be very uncomfortable and distracting. 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.
What triggers itchy ears?
There can be numerous underlying causes of itchy ears. Itchy ears can be safely relieved in a few possible ways depending on the cause.
Does earwax play a role?
Your ear canals are lubricated and safeguarded by cerumen, or earwax. It’s a significant 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 you experience discomfort due to dryness, utilizing a specialist-approved ear moisturizer can help restore balance and alleviate the itch.
The impact of swimming on ear health
Frequent swimmers often encounter itchy ears if they don’t take the necessary precautions. Pollutants and germs can be encountered in water, and that includes chlorinated pools. If water remains trapped in your ears post-swimming, it can result in conditions like swimmer’s ear or eczema.
Preventative steps, such as 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?
Itchy ears can be the result of allergies, including seasonal and food-related allergies. When your body responds to allergies, it releases histamines that can cause itching.
To manage this, using an antihistamine can help reduce the allergic response and subsequent itchiness.
Fungal infections in the ear
Yet another cause of itchy ears is fungal infections. This risk also applies to swimmers and others because it flourishes in warm and moist environments. Stopping 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 prevented?
Knowing how to prevent itchy ears can save you from future discomfort. Here are some proactive steps you can take to preserve ear health:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Refrain from inserting hard objects into your ears, as they can aggravate the sensitive skin.
- Manage Allergies: Limit exposure to allergens that can cause ear itchiness. The discomfort of itchy ears can be avoided by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to steer clear of them.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re bathing or showering, keep the water out by plugging your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
If you’re dealing with persistent or extreme itching, it is always advisable to consult us, to ensure correct diagnosis and treatment.