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 essential to understand the root cause first. Identifying the safest and most effective way to handle the itch depends on determining the underlying cause.
Itchy ear triggers
There can be several inherent causes of itchy ears. Itchy ears can be safely alleviated in a few possible ways depending on the cause.
The function of earwax
Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance manufactured by your ears to protect and lubricate the ear canal. It plays an essential role in preserving ear health. While too much earwax might 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 addressed with an approved ear moisturizer.
The affect of swimming on ear health
If someone who swims a lot fails to take the appropriate precautions, they will frequently encounter itchy ears. Water, and that includes chlorinated pools, can harbor germs and pollutants that might result in ear infections. Conditions like eczema and swimmers ear can be the consequence of water that gets trapped in the ears.
Preventative steps, like wearing a swim cap or using earplugs, can help keep your ear canals dry and reduce the risk of infections.
Allergies and itchy ears
Itchy ears can be the result of allergies, including seasonal and food-based allergies. When your body reacts to allergies, it produces histamines that can cause itching.
To address this, taking an antihistamine can help decrease the allergic response and subsequent itchiness.
Fungal infections in the ear
Fungal infections are another possible cause of ear itching. 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.
A specialist can prescribe you with ant-fungal medication in the case where a fungal infection is present.
How can itchy ears be prevented?
Knowing how to prevent itchy ears can save you from future discomfort. Maintain ear health by taking these proactive measures:
- Avoid Hard Objects: Hard objects can irritate the sensitive skin in your ears, so avoid using them.
- Manage Allergies: Limit 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.
- Keep Water Out: Use clean cotton balls to block water from getting into your ears while showering or bathing.
If you experience persistent or severe itching, it is always recommended to consult us, to ensure correct diagnosis and treatment.