We’ve all experienced that itch that seemed impossible to reach.
You may think about this in a couple of different ways: First, you think about something you always wanted to do in life but you never got around to (skydiving, for example). Or, that itchy spot on your back that you just can’t manage to reach might come to mind.
That’s so annoying! Desperately trying to scratch that itchy spot on your back. It’s the reason why back-scratchers exist.
Regrettably, when you’re dealing with an itchy ear, there’s no device to get at it. That itchy feeling is coming from inside your ear canal, somewhere that you physically can’t reach (regardless how hard you try). It’s worse than that spot on your back, and it’s not surprising that itchy ears are probably driving you nuts.
Your daily life can be affected by itchy ears
It might sound like a minor problem, superficially. It’s just itchy ears, right? At least you’re not in terrible pain.
But think about it: Your ear is itchy, and you can’t do anything about it. No big deal, if it only occurs now and then. But if your ears are itchy constantly? You may find yourself, and your quality of life, substantially impacted.
Maybe the sensation is so uncomfortable that you stop going out for dinner or seeing friends. Or perhaps you try to overwhelm the sensation by listening to overly loud music.
It’s not fun at all. But there are strategies and treatments. Understanding what’s causing your itchy ears is the first measure to finding an appropriate treatment.
So what causes your ears to itch?
So why are your ears itching? And what can be done about it? The treatment for itchy ears is going to vary depending on the root cause. Your ears could be being impacted by many underlying causes, as with most medical conditions. Here are a few of the most prevalent:
- Ear infections: Yes, the plain old ear infection could be the culprit behind your distress. Common in youth, ear infections can continue to strike at any time. Ear infection can cause an accumulation of fluid in your ear. At the same time, the tissues in your ears can begin to become inflamed. Very itchy ears can be the result of this trapped fluid and irritated tissue. Addressing the infection with your doctor’s help is the solution. Your ears will normally stop itching when the infection clears up.
- You have an earwax blockage: Look, it’s completely normal for your ears to create a prodigious amount of wax. You might be surprised to learn that wax is actually cleaning your ears. But this blockage can form for a number of reasons. One reason is because of the use of cotton swabs to “clean” your ears, so if you’re doing that, you should stop right away. We can, in any case, help you get rid of any earwax difficulties. So scheduling an appointment can help give you some relief.
- Skin disorders: Certain skin disorders can, occasionally, trigger itching that is difficult to get at. You can even find yourself with a condition called ear dandruff. Your doctor will be able to help you determine what your solutions are. It isn’t exactly simple to slather your ear canal with moisturizer, after all, nor would we ever suggest you try. Once again, your provider will be the best one to help you manage skin conditions that trigger itchy ears!
- Improper hearing aid fitting: Hearing aids are made to fit snugly in your ears. This will create the best returns and the best sound. But this snug fit can turn into irritation and itchiness when your hearing aids don’t fit correctly. This, as a result, can cause you to stop using your hearing aids as frequently, and that can be bad for your hearing. Schedule an appointment with us for a proper fitting is the solution. In some situations, hearing aids may even be custom molded to custom fit your ears.
- Allergies: Allergies can frequently cause itching. You can often minimize your symptoms by using an over-the-counter allergy medicine, such as an antihistamine. It can be tricky to pin down, sometimes, exactly what you’re allergic to. But a great many allergens, including pollen, can cause your ears to itch. So your spring hay fever could quickly translate into itchy ears. An allergist will be the best place to seek a solution to this.
Getting relief for your itchy ears
Itchy ears can take the pleasure out of pretty much everything. Your life can actually be changed by finding relief with the proper treatment. If you attempt to just wait it out, you will likely extend your suffering because it isn’t likely that the itching will clear itself up.
Stop paying attention to your itchy ears and go back to enjoying your life. Call us for a consultation.