We’ve all experienced that itch that seemed impossible to scratch.
You may consider this in a couple of different ways: First, you think about something you always wanted to do with your life but so far you haven’t got around to (skydiving, for instance). Or, if you’re a bit less of a romantic, you think about that spot on your back that you just can’t quite reach.
That’s really annoying! Having that itch and being desperate to get to that spot on your back. It’s the reason why back-scratchers exist.
Unfortunately, there’s no such 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 mad.
Itchy ears can impact your daily life
On the surface, it sounds like a small thing. Itchy ears? It could be worse, right? At least you aren’t in terrible pain.
Here’s something to think about: There’s no alleviation for an itchy ear. No big deal, if it only occurs now and then. But what if your ears are continuously itchy? It may end up having a real impact on your quality of life.
Maybe you stay home and quit socializing with friends. Or perhaps you attempt to overpower the sensation by listening to excessively loud music.
It stinks. But there are strategies and treatments. Understanding what’s causing your itchy ears is the first measure to finding the right treatment.
So what are some of the causes of itchy ears?
So why are your ears itching? And what can be done about it? Depending on the underlying cause, itchy ears will have differing solutions. As with most other medical conditions, there are a number of possible underlying conditions that may be impacting your ears. Here are some of the most common:
- Skin disorders: Sometimes, a skin condition can cause a response in places you can’t itch. You can even find yourself with something called ear dandruff. You should speak with your doctor about what your options are. It isn’t exactly easy to slather your ear canal with moisturizer, after all, nor would we ever recommend you try. If you have this type of skin condition, your doctor is, once again, your best option.
- You have an earwax blockage: If your ears are creating a significant amount of wax, that’s not unusual. That’s because wax is good for your ears and (counter-intuitively) helps keep them clean! But this blockage can develop for numerous reasons. One reason is because of the use of cotton swabs to “clean” your ears, so if that’s happening, you should stop right away. We can, in any case, help you clear up any earwax difficulties. So you will get some relief by scheduling an appointment with us.
- Improper hearing aid fitting: Your hearing aids should fit into your ears snugly. This will yield the best results and the best sound. But this snug fit can lead to irritation and itchiness when your hearing aids don’t fit correctly. This, as a result, can cause you to stop wearing your hearing aids as frequently, and that can be detrimental to your hearing. The answer is to come in and consult us for a proper fitting. We may even be able to mold your hearing aid so it better fits your ear.
- Ear infections: That’s correct, the cause of your itchy ears can be a normal ear infection. Ear infections can happen at any age but happen more often when you’re younger. Ear infection can cause an accumulation of fluid in your ear. Along with fluid buildup, swelling of the tissue can occur. Combined, this can result in trapped fluid, irritated tissue, and really itchy ears. The solution is to speak with your doctor and treat the root infection. Your ears will normally stop itching when the infection clears up.
- Allergies: Allergies are tricky, and it’s not uncommon for them to cause itching. You can sometimes reduce your symptoms by taking an over-the-counter allergy medication, like an antihistamine. It can be tricky to pin down, sometimes, exactly what you’re allergic to. But itchy ears can result from a wide variety of allergens, including pollen. So your spring hay fever could quickly become itchy ears. If the itching continues, you should talk to an allergist about finding a solution (and relief).
Getting relief for your itchy ears
Pretty much every activity becomes less fun with itchy ears. Your life can actually be changed by finding relief with the proper treatment. Often, these itchy ears will not go away by themselves (and if they do, it’ll feel like it takes ages), so there’s no point in attempting to wait it out, you’ll probably just prolong your suffering.
Stop focusing on your itchy ears and go back to enjoying your life. Give us a call for a consultation.