It can be very aggravating and uncomfortable when your ears are itching. While your instinct may lead you to use your finger or a little object to scratch the itch, it is crucial to know the underlying cause first. 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 triggered by numerous possible causes. Depending on the cause, there are strategies to help safely relieve it.
Does earwax play a role?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural compound produced by your ears to protect and lubricate the ear canal. It’s a significant part of the health of your ears. While too much earwax may 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 relieve the itch.
The impact of swimming on ear health
Frequent swimmers often encounter itchy ears if they fail to take the necessary precautions. Pollutants and germs can be encountered in water, and that includes chlorinated pools. If water remains trapped in your ears after swimming, it can result in conditions like swimmer’s ear or eczema.
Keeping the ear canal dry by wearing a swimmer’s cap or earplugs will decrease the risk of infection.
Allergies and itchy ears
Allergies, whether seasonal or due to specific foods or drinks, can contribute to an itchy sensation in the ears. When your body reacts to allergies, it releases histamines that can trigger itching.
To address 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 thrives in warm and damp environments. Preventing 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 present.
What are some preventative steps for itchy ears?
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 measures you can take to preserve ear health:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can irritate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using 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.
- Manage Allergies: Limit exposure to allergens that can trigger ear itchiness. The discomfort of itchy ears can be avoided by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to avoid them.
If you’re dealing with persistent or extreme itching, it is always advisable to consult us, to ensure correct diagnosis and treatment.