It can be very irritating and uncomfortable when your ears are itching. Before you put your finger or an object into your ear in an attempt to scratch the itch, you should be aware of the root cause. Identifying the safest and most effective way to handle the itch depends on determining the underlying cause.
Itchy ear causes
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.
The role of earwax
Your ear canals are lubricated and safeguarded by cerumen, or earwax. It’s an important part of the health of your ears. While an excessive buildup of earwax can impede hearing and might necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can cause dry and itchy skin in the ear canal.
If you experience discomfort as a consequence of dryness, using a specialist-approved ear moisturizer can help return balance and relieve the itch.
The affect of swimming on ear health
If somebody who swims a lot fails to take the proper precautions, they will frequently experience itchy ears. Pollutants and germs can be encountered in water, and that includes chlorinated pools. If water stays trapped in your ears after swimming, it can cause conditions like swimmer’s ear or eczema.
Keeping the ear canal dry by wearing a swimmer’s cap or earplugs will lessen the risk of infection.
Can allergies trigger itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be caused by allergies, including seasonal and food-based allergies. This reaction takes place because histamines are released into the body during an allergic reaction, leading to itching.
To manage this, using an antihistamine can help reduce the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
Fungal infections in the ear
Yet another cause of itchy ears is fungal infections. These infections can thrive in warm, humid spaces and can also be a risk for regular swimmers. Stopping fungal infections is heavily dependent on keeping the ears clean and dry.
If you suspect a fungal infection, it is important to consult a specialist who can prescribe proper anti-fungal medication.
How can itchy ears be avoided?
Knowing how to avoid itchy ears can save you from future discomfort. Maintain ear health by taking these proactive measures:
- Keep Water Out: Utilize clean cotton balls to block water from getting into your ears during showers or baths.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can aggravate the sensitive skin in your ears, so avoid 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 avoid them.
Consult us for a diagnosis and proper treatment if you’re experiencing extreme or persistent itching in your ears.