It can be really aggravating and uncomfortable when your ears are itching. While your instinct might lead you to use your finger or a little object to scratch the itch, it is critical 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 triggers itchy ears?
There can be a few inherent causes of itchy ears. Depending on the cause, there are methods to help safely relieve it.
Does earwax play a role?
Your ear canals are lubricated and safeguarded 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 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.
The affect of swimming on ear health
Frequent swimmers often experience itchy ears if they don’t take the necessary precautions. Water, and that includes chlorinated pools, can harbor germs and pollutants that may result in ear infections. Conditions like eczema and swimmers ear can be the consequence of water that gets trapped in the ears.
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-related allergies. When your body reacts to allergies, it releases histamines that can trigger itching.
The allergy response and itching can be decreased by taking an antihistamine.
Fungal infections in the ear
Fungal infections are another possible cause of ear itching. This risk also pertains to swimmers and others because it thrives in warm and damp environments. Stopping 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 present.
What are some preventative steps for itchy ears?
Knowing how to prevent itchy ears can save you from future discomfort. Preserve ear health by taking these proactive measures:
- 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. Understanding your allergens and taking steps to avoid them can prevent the discomfort associated with itchy ear canals.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can aggravate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using them.
If you’re dealing with persistent or extreme itching, it is always recommended to consult us, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.