We’ve all had that itch that seemed impossible to scratch.
Alright, there are two ways to consider it: The first thing you may think of is that bucket list item you just never seem to get to. Or, that itchy spot on your back that you just can’t manage to reach might come to mind.
That’s so annoying! Having that itch and being desperate to get to that spot on your back. That’s why we created back-scratchers.
Sadly, there isn’t a device that can alleviate itching in your ears. No matter how hard you try, you just can’t reach up into your ear canal where that itch is coming from. 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 only itchy ears, right? At least your ears aren’t in pain or burning or throbbing.
But think about it: There’s no relief for an itchy ear. If it occurs once in a while, sure, it’s not that big of a problem. But what if your ears are continuously itchy? It might end up having a significant affect on your quality of life.
Perhaps you stay home and stop interacting with friends. Maybe you begin listening to music at increasing volumes attempting to drown out that itchy feeling.
It’s not fun at all. But treatments and strategies do exist. Knowing what’s causing your itchy ears is the first measure to discovering the right treatment.
So what causes your ears to itch?
So why are your ears itching? And what can be done about it? Depending on the underlying cause, itchy ears will have different solutions. Your ears could be being affected by many underlying causes, as with most medical conditions. Among the most common are the following:
- Ear infections: That’s correct, the cause of your itchy ears can be a regular ear infection. Ear infections can occur at any age but happen more frequently when you’re younger. And when they do, fluid can accumulate in your ears. In addition, the tissues inside of your ears can start to swell (thank you, inflammation). Very itchy ears can be the result of this trapped fluid and irritated tissue. The solution is to speak with your doctor and treat the underlying infection. Once that’s cleared up, the itching in your ears should go away.
- Allergies: Allergies can sometimes cause itching. You can sometimes reduce your symptoms by using an over-the-counter allergy medication, like an antihistamine. It can be difficult to pin down, sometimes, precisely what you’re allergic to. But itchy ears can be a consequence of a large number of allergens, including pollen. Itchy ears could easily come from your spring hay fever. If the itching continues, you should consult an allergist about finding a solution (and relief).
- Skin disorders: Occasionally, a skin disorder can cause a reaction in places you can’t reach. You can even find yourself with something called ear dandruff. Your doctor will be able to help you determine what your options 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 deal with skin conditions that trigger itchy ears!
- You have an earwax blockage: Look, it’s perfectly normal for your ears to produce a prodigious amount of wax. You may be surprised to find out that wax is actually cleaning your ears. But this blockage can form for numerous reasons. One thing you should stop doing right away is using cotton swabs to “clean” your ears. At any rate, we should be able to remove most earwax blockages. So you will get some relief by scheduling an appointment with us.
- Improper hearing aid fitting: Hearing aids are made to fit snugly in your ears. This will produce the best returns and the best sound. But when your hearing aids don’t fit properly, this snugness can quickly turn into irritation and itchiness. This, as a result, can cause you to stop wearing your hearing aids as often, and that can be detrimental to your hearing. The solution is to come in and see us for a proper fitting. In some cases, hearing aids could even be custom molded to better fit your ears.
Finding treatment for your itchy ears, and relief
Itchy ears can take the pleasure out of just about everything. Finding the correct treatment, and getting lasting relief can be completely life changing. If you attempt to just wait it out, you will most likely prolong your suffering because it’s not likely that the itching will clear itself up.
Stop focusing on your itchy ears and go back to enjoying your life. Call us for a consultation.
