Tips for Alleviation and Prevention of Itchy Ears
Coping with an itch in your inner ear can be highly uncomfortable and disruptive. While your instinct might tempt you to use your finger or a small object to scratch the itch, it is crucial to understand the root cause first. Identifying the root cause of your ear itch will help you determine the safest and most effective way to address it.
Itchy ear triggers
There can be a few inherent causes of itchy ears. Itchy ears can be safely relieved in a number of potential ways depending on the cause.
Does earwax play a role?
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural compound manufactured by your ears to safeguard and lubricate the ear canal. It plays an essential role in maintaining ear health. While an excessive buildup of earwax can hinder hearing and may necessitate removal by a professional, having too little earwax can result in dry and itchy skin in the ear canal.
If you experience discomfort due to dryness, using a specialist-approved ear moisturizer can help return balance and alleviate the itch.
How does swimming impact ear health?
If somebody who swims a lot fails to take the appropriate precautions, they will frequently encounter itchy ears. Water, and that includes chlorinated pools, can hold germs and pollutants that might lead to ear infections. If water stays trapped in your ears post-swimming, it can trigger conditions like swimmer’s ear or eczema.
Preventative measures, like wearing a swim cap or utilizing earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and minimize the risk of infections.
Allergies and itchy ears
Itchy ears can be the result of allergies, including seasonal and food-related allergies. When your body responds to allergies, it produces histamines that can trigger itching.
To address this, using an antihistamine can help decrease the allergic reaction and subsequent itchiness.
Fungal infections in the ear
Fungal infections are another potential cause of itchy ears. This risk also applies to swimmers and others because it thrives in warm and damp environments. Stopping fungal infections is strongly dependent on keeping the ears clean and dry.
If you suspect a fungal infection, it is important to consult a specialist who can prescribe suitable anti-fungal medication.
How can itchy ears be prevented?
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 steps:
- Manage Allergies: Reduce exposure to allergens that can trigger ear itchiness. The discomfort of itchy ears can be averted by understanding your allergies and doing what you can to steer clear of them.
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can irritate the sensitive skin in your ears, so abstain from using them.
- Keep Water Out: Use clean cotton balls to block water from entering your ears during showers or baths.
If you’re dealing with persistent or severe itching, it is always recommended to consult us, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.