Why It Happens and What You Can Do About It
Next to pain, itching is probably the most uncomfortable physical sensation.
When it occurs in your ear canals, relief can be hard to come by. But don’t start scratching — your ear canal and eardrum are easily damaged.
Fortunately, there are things you can do to alleviate or even prevent ear itching.
Earwax Buildup
Earwax buildup can happen to anyone, and many factors can lead to it, such as trauma; scar tissue; large debris in your ear canal; or using earbuds, earplugs, or hearing aids.
Earwax buildup can also trap water in your ear canal, irritating the lining and causing inflammation and itchiness. But don’t stick anything in your ear to scratch it!
Commercial eardrops that soften wax can clear your ear canal and relieve the itching. If that doesn’t bring relief, see your hearing care professional — they can remove buildup without hurting your ear canal or eardrum.
Allergies
When your body reacts to an allergen, it releases histamine, which can cause itching, watery eyes, and sneezing. The effects of histamines can also block the drainage tube in your middle ear, called the Eustachian tube. The sensation this creates is often interpreted as itchiness.
It’s tempting to press on your tragus (that small flap of cartilage near your ear’s opening) and wiggle it to try to relieve the itching sensation, but the best home remedy is to take an antihistamine if not contraindicated with other medications. You’ll want to check with your physician first.
Skin Conditions
Two of the more common skin conditions are eczema and psoriasis, either of which can affect your ears.
If you develop an ear itch and you know you have either of these conditions — or if you’ve just started noticing scaling — this might be the culprit.
This two-part problem most likely doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all solution. Any home remedy will have to be worked out with your hearing care provider and dermatologist as a joint solution.
Infection
Ear infections are common, and most people only remember the pain. But it probably started with itching — an important indicator of possible bacteria buildup in your outer ear, which can progress to a full-blown infection.
If your ear feels itchy and it’s persistent, intense, or accompanied by throbbing, schedule an appointment with your hearing care provider, who might decide to involve your family doctor as well.
Anxiety
Many people blush when they’re embarrassed. Some people break out in hives when they’re nervous. And some people develop an itching sensation when they get anxious, which can affect their ears.
From deep-breathing exercises to simply listening to music that you know calms you down, there are many ways right at hand to ease anxiety.
Can I Prevent Itchy Ears?
The best way to prevent itching in any part of the ear is to practice good ear hygiene, avoid allergy triggers, and never insert things into your ear.
If you’re dealing with itchy ears this summer, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. We’re here to help!