It can be really frustrating and uncomfortable when your ears are itching. Before you put your finger or an object into your ear in an attempt to scratch the itch, you should be aware of the underlying cause. Identifying the safest and most effective way to deal with the itch depends on determining the underlying cause.
What causes itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be caused by several potential causes. Itchy ears can be safely alleviated in numerous possible ways depending on the cause.
Does earwax play a role?
Your ear canals are lubricated and protected by cerumen, or earwax. It plays a vital role in preserving ear health. While an excessive accumulation of earwax can impede hearing and may necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can lead to dry and itchy skin in the ear canal.
If your ears are dry and itchy, they can be addressed with an approved ear moisturizer.
The affect of swimming on ear health
Regular swimmers often experience itchy ears if they don’t take the necessary precautions. Water, including that in chlorinated pools, can hold germs and pollutants that may lead to ear infections. Conditions like eczema and swimmers ear can be the consequence of water that gets trapped in the ears.
Preventative measures, such as wearing a swim cap or using earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and decrease the risk of infections.
Can allergies cause itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be the result of allergies, including seasonal and food-related allergies. When your body reacts to allergies, it releases histamines that can trigger itching.
To address this, taking an antihistamine can help reduce the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
In-ear fungal infections
Fungal infections are another possible cause of ear itching. This risk also pertains to swimmers and others because it thrives in warm and moist environments. Stopping fungal infections is heavily 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 happening.
How can itchy ears be avoided?
You can be relieved of itching in the ears by being aware of how to avoid it in the first place. Here are a few proactive steps you can take to maintain ear health:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can irritate the sensitive skin in your ears, so avoid using them.
- Manage Allergies: Some allergens can cause your ears to itch, so limit your exposure whenever possible. The discomfort of itchy ears can be averted by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to avoid them.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re taking a bath or showering, keep the water out by plugging your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
If you experience persistent or extreme itching, it is always recommended to consult us, to ensure correct diagnosis and treatment.