Coping with an itch in your inner ear can be highly uncomfortable and disruptive. Before you put your finger or an object into your ear in an attempt to scratch the itch, you need to be aware of the root cause. Identifying the root cause of your ear itch will help you figure out the safest and most effective way to address it.
What causes itchy ears?
There can be numerous inherent causes of itchy ears. Itchy ears can be safely relieved in a few possible ways depending on the cause.
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 an important part of the health of your ears. While too much earwax might need to be professionally removed, not enough earwax can result in 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 someone who swims a lot fails to take the proper precautions, they will frequently encounter itchy ears. Water, and that includes chlorinated pools, can harbor germs and pollutants that might result in ear infections. Conditions like eczema and swimmers ear can be the result of water that gets trapped in the ears.
Keeping the ear canal dry by wearing a swimmer’s cap or earplugs will decrease the risk of infection.
Allergies and itchy ears
Itchy ears can be caused by allergies, including seasonal and food-based allergies. When your body reacts to allergies, it produces histamines that can cause itching.
The allergy response and itching can be reduced by taking an antihistamine.
In-ear fungal infections
Fungal infections are another potential cause of itchy ears. This risk also applies to swimmers and others because it flourishes in warm and moist 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 happening.
How can itchy ears be prevented?
You can be relieved of itching in the ears by knowing how to prevent it in the first place. Preserve ear health by taking these proactive measures:
- Keep Water Out: When you’re taking a bath or showering, keep the water out by blocking your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can irritate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using them.
- Manage Allergies: Limit exposure to allergens that can trigger ear itchiness. The discomfort of itchy ears can be prevented by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to steer clear of them.
Consult us for a diagnosis and effective treatment if you’re experiencing severe or persistent itching in your ears.