It can be very irritating 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 understand the root cause first. Pinpointing the root cause of your ear itch will help you determine the safest and most effective method to address it.
Itchy ear triggers
There can be numerous inherent causes of itchy ears. Depending on the cause, there are ways 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 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 as a consequence of dryness, utilizing a specialist-approved ear moisturizer can help return balance and relieve the itch.
How does swimming affect ear health?
Frequent swimmers often experience itchy ears if they don’t take the necessary precautions. Pollutants and germs can be found in water, and that includes chlorinated pools. Conditions like eczema and swimmers ear can be the consequence of water that gets trapped in the ears.
Preventative steps, like wearing a swim cap or using earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and decrease the risk of infections.
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.
To manage this, taking an antihistamine can help decrease the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
Fungal infections in the ear
Fungal infections are another possible cause of itchy ears. This risk also pertains to swimmers and others because it thrives in warm and damp environments. Keeping your ears dry is crucial in stopping fungal infections.
If you think you might have a fungal infection, it is essential to consult a specialist who can prescribe suitable anti-fungal medication.
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: Refrain from inserting hard objects into your ears, as they can irritate the sensitive skin.
- Manage Allergies: Some allergens can cause your ears to itch, so limit your exposure whenever you can. The discomfort of itchy ears can be prevented 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 severe itching, it is always recommended to consult us, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.