Itchy ears tend to trouble most people at one time or another. It can be very irritating and uncomfortable. The causes of this ear condition are very extensive. Sometimes, it might be dry skin, but other times, it could be associated with some infection. Among many other skin disorders, the most recurrent symptom is itching. Understanding the causes of itchy ears is usually necessary in terms of providing relief and the right treatment. Let’s get a comprehensive view about this ear condition and know the best strategy and management options to soothe this ear condition.
Causes of Itchy Ears
If you’re dealing with itchy or scaly ears, you’re not alone. Many people experience this discomfort, and it can stem from a variety of causes. Understanding what’s behind the itch is the first step in finding relief. Based on some of the studies, it has been found that the reasons behind itchy ears could be many like psoriasis (one of the common skin conditions), skin allergies, infection, improper cleaning and more. So if you have been asking why do my ears itch everyday, any one of the reasons given below can be your answer:
Dry Skin
Dry skin is probably one of the most common causes of having itchy ears inside. The skin of your ear is pretty sensitive, and if the moisture is too low, it can irritate and itch. This happens because there are not enough natural oils in your ears to keep the skin moist. A humidifier or adding a little oil might be used as an itchy ear remedy.
Earwax Buildup
Now this could be one of the possible reasons behind your question: why is the inside of my ear itchy? In this case, it may be because of the blockage caused by earwax. Earwax is how our ears protect us from dust and dirt. However, excessive earwax causes itchiness. If the wax gets hard or pushes further in the ear, you may be experiencing discomfort. Using ear drops for itchy ears can soften the wax, making its removal easier.
Allergies
Allergies are among the most common factors of itchy or scaly ears. If you develop allergies to pollen, dust, or other foodstuff, your system may react through itching inside and outside the ear.
Ear Infection
Infections, especially in the ear canal, also cause an itchy inner ear. Bacteria or fungi can get into the ear and cause infection and swelling. If you notice itching along with pain or fluid discharge, it can be an ear infection. It is important to see a doctor for proper treatment for itchy ears for such cases. Ear infections are often treated with antibiotics or antifungal medicine.
Swimmer’s Ear
Swimmer’s ear or itchy ears outside are usually brought about by a medical condition known as swimmer’s ear. This occurs when water remains in your ear following swimming or bathing. The moisture works as a breeding place for the bacteria, thus causing infections and itchiness. You may also feel your ear tender or painful. To avoid this, keep your ears dry and apply the right ear drop for the swimmer’s ear.
Skin Conditions
Sometimes, eczema or psoriasis of the skin may cause you to experience symptoms in your ears. These diseases cause red, scaly patches on your skin, causing itchy ears in and out. You might have the disease elsewhere in your body, but sometimes, it will also cause outbreaks in your ears. Applying moisturizer to the area and using a gentle cleanser can help ease itching.
Wearing Hearing Aids or Earbuds
Earbuds and hearing aids can also irritate your ears. The friction from using earbuds or hearing aids can make the skin inside your ears dry, causing itchiness. If your ears get itchy every day after using these devices, you will have to clean them more often. Debris-filled earbuds and hearing aids can become infested with bacteria, which causes infection. Cleaning your devices often might be one of your remedies for itchy ears.
Temperature Changes
Finally, there is also the case of ear itching brought about by extreme conditions. In extreme cold, the air can dry up and thus dry your ear canal. In such situations, extremely hot and humid conditions cause your ears to sweat, itching. Providing your indoor temperature in a comfortable range and protecting your ears should minimize the risk of itchy ears.
How to Manage Itchy Ears?
The above section was all about the possible causes behind this ear condition, let’s move on to discuss some of the best ways to treat and get rid of this itchiness.
Cleaning Your Ears
At times, ear cleaning becomes an effective remedy for itchy or scaly ears. Do not use cotton swabs or other objects that push the wax deeper into the ear. You could use ear drops for itchy ears designed to soften the wax and dislodge it from the ear canal. But make sure you do it gradually, and if you are not able to, visit the clinic for ear cleaning.
Avoid Allergens
If allergies are causing itching in your ears, try to avoid allergens that may cause the allergy. You can make your living space clean as well as use an air filter with a filter that reduces dust or pollen.
Visit a Doctor in Case of Infection
If you suspect that there’s already an infection, it is best to visit a physician for itchy ear treatment. A doctor can prescribe medicines like antibiotics or antifungal treatments whenever there is a need to do so. Do not take this lightly since infection in the ear can cause major problems if left untreated.
Dry Your Ears
Mostly, it is safer to dry the ears after a swim or after a bath. This can be achieved by positioning your head to a side to allow water from within to drain out or by using a clean towel to dab gently at the outer ear. You may also seek to use earplugs if you have a history of a swimmer’s ear.
Final Thoughts
Ear is a delicate part of the body and we have to take care of this organ in a more delicate way, so seek a doctor for help rather than picking any ear itching home remedy on your own. One can wipe out the outer part of the ear using a cloth for cleaning the wax (or any dust), but do not insert anything into the ear canal, neither scratch inside of the ear, nor apply any random ear drops until it gets prescribed by ear specialist (otolaryngologist).
