Coping with 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 understand the root cause first. Pinpointing the root cause of your ear itch will help you figure out the safest and most effective method to address it.
What triggers itchy ears?
There can be a few underlying causes of itchy ears. Depending on the cause, there are ways to help safely relieve it.
The function of earwax
Your ear canals are lubricated and protected by cerumen, or earwax. It plays a vital role in maintaining ear health. While too much earwax may need to be professionally removed, not enough earwax can cause dry itchy skin in your ear canal.
If your ears are dry and itchy, they can be treated with an approved ear moisturizer.
How does swimming impact ear health?
Regular swimmers often encounter itchy ears if they don’t take the required precautions. Water, including that in chlorinated pools, can hold germs and pollutants that might lead to ear infections. If water stays trapped in your ears after swimming, it can trigger conditions like swimmer’s ear or eczema.
Preventative measures, such as wearing a swim cap or utilizing earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and minimize the risk of infections.
Allergies and itchy ears
Allergies, whether seasonal or related to specific foods or drinks, can contribute to an itchy sensation in the ears. When your body responds to allergies, it produces histamines that can cause itching.
To manage this, using an antihistamine can help reduce the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
Fungal infections in the ear
Yet another trigger 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.
How can itchy ears be avoided?
You can be relieved of itching in the ears by knowing how to avoid it in the first place. Maintain ear health by taking these proactive steps:
- Manage Allergies: Limit exposure to allergens that can cause ear itchiness. The discomfort of itchy ears can be avoided by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to avoid them.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re bathing or showering, keep the water out by blocking your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Avoid inserting hard objects into your ears, as they can irritate the sensitive skin.
Consult us for a diagnosis and effective treatment if you’re experiencing extreme or persistent itching in your ears.