Experiencing an itch in your inner ear can be highly uncomfortable and disruptive. While your instinct might lead you to use your finger or a little object to scratch the itch, it is essential to know the root cause first. Pinpointing the root cause of your ear itch will help you determine the safest and most effective method to deal with it.
What causes itchy ears?
There can be a few underlying causes of itchy ears. Itchy ears can be safely relieved in a few potential ways depending on the cause.
Does earwax play a role?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by your ears to safeguard and lubricate the ear canal. It plays a vital role in preserving ear health. While an excessive accumulation of earwax can hinder 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 somebody who swims a lot fails to take the appropriate precautions, they will often encounter itchy ears. Water, including that in chlorinated pools, can harbor 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, like wearing a swim cap or using earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and minimize the risk of infections.
Allergies and itchy ears
Itchy ears can be caused by allergies, including seasonal and food-related allergies. When your body reacts to allergies, it releases histamines that can cause itching.
The allergy reaction and itching can be reduced by using an antihistamine.
In-ear fungal infections
Yet another trigger of itchy ears is fungal infections. These infections can thrive in warm, humid environments and can also be a risk for regular swimmers. Preventing fungal infections is strongly 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?
Knowing how to prevent itchy ears can save you from future discomfort. Here are some proactive measures you can take to preserve ear health:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can aggravate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using them.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re bathing or showering, keep the water out by plugging your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
- Manage Allergies: Some allergens can cause your ears to itch, so reduce your exposure whenever possible. The discomfort of itchy ears can be averted 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 extreme or persistent itching in your ears.