It can be very 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 root cause. Pinpointing the safest and most effective way to handle the itch depends on determining the underlying cause.
What causes itchy ears?
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 protected by cerumen, or earwax. It’s a major part of the health of your ears. While an excessive buildup of earwax can obstruct hearing and may necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can lead to dry and itchy skin in the ear canal.
If you experience discomfort due to dryness, utilizing a specialist-approved ear moisturizer can help restore balance and relieve the itch.
The affect of swimming on ear health
If someone who swims a lot fails to take the proper precautions, they will often experience itchy ears. Pollutants and germs can be found in water, and that includes chlorinated pools. If water stays trapped in your ears post-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.
Can allergies trigger itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be the result of allergies, including seasonal and food-based allergies. When your body reacts to allergies, it releases histamines that can cause itching.
To address this, using an antihistamine can help decrease the allergic response and subsequent itchiness.
In-ear fungal infections
Yet another cause of itchy ears is fungal infections. These infections can thrive in warm, humid spaces and can also be a risk for regular swimmers. Keeping your ears dry is crucial in stopping fungal infections.
If you think you might have a fungal infection, it is important to consult a specialist who can prescribe suitable anti-fungal medication.
What are some preventative measures for itchy ears?
You can be relieved of itching in the ears by knowing how to avoid it in the first place. Preserve ear health by taking these proactive steps:
- 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: Reduce exposure to allergens that can cause ear itchiness. Understanding your allergens and taking steps to avoid them can prevent the discomfort connected to itchy ear canals.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can aggravate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using them.
Consult us for a diagnosis and proper treatment if you’re experiencing extreme or persistent itching in your ears.
