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 critical to know the root cause first. Pinpointing the root cause of your ear itch will help you determine the safest and most effective way to address it.
What causes itchy ears?
Itchy ears can be caused by several possible causes. Depending on the cause, there are strategies to help safely relieve it.
The function of earwax
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural compound produced by your ears to protect and lubricate the ear canal. It’s an important part of the health of your ears. While an excessive buildup of earwax can hinder hearing and might necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can lead to dry and itchy skin in the 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.
The impact of swimming on ear health
If someone who swims a lot fails to take the proper precautions, they will frequently experience itchy ears. Water, including that in chlorinated pools, can hold 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 using a swimmer’s cap or earplugs will decrease the risk of infection.
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.
To address this, taking an antihistamine can help decrease the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
In-ear fungal infections
Fungal infections are another potential cause of itchy ears. These infections can thrive in warm, humid settings and can also be a risk for regular swimmers. 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 happening.
How can itchy ears be avoided?
You can be relieved of itching in the ears by knowing how to prevent it in the first place. Maintain ear health by taking these proactive measures:
- Manage Allergies: Reduce exposure to allergens that can cause ear itchiness. The discomfort of itchy ears can be prevented by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to steer clear of them.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Refrain from inserting hard objects into your ears, as they can irritate the sensitive skin.
- Keep Water Out: When you’re bathing or showering, keep the water out by blocking your ear canal with clean cotton balls.
If you’re dealing with persistent or extreme itching, it is always recommended to consult us, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.