We’ve all experienced that itch that seemed impossible to reach.
You might think about this in a couple of different ways: The first thing you might think about is that bucket list item you just never seem to get to. 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 sort of a horrible experience, right? Having that itch and being desperate to get to that spot on your back. It’s the reason why back-scratchers exist.
Regrettably, when you have an itchy ear, there’s no device that will get at it. That itching sensation is coming from inside your ear canal, somewhere that you can’t physically reach (regardless how hard you try). It’s worse than that spot on your back, and it’s not shocking that itchy ears are probably driving you crazy.
Itchy ears can affect your daily life
At first glance, it sounds like a small thing. Itchy ears? It could be worse, 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. No big deal, if it only happens once in a while. But if your ears are itchy constantly? You may find yourself, and your quality of life, significantly impacted.
Maybe the experience is so uncomfortable that you stop eating out or spending time with friends. Maybe you begin listening to music at increasing volumes trying to drown out that itchy feeling.
It’s not at all fun. But treatments and solutions do exist. Understanding what’s causing your itchy ears is the first measure to discovering a suitable treatment.
So what are some of the causes of itchy ears?
So what’s the cause of that itch? And what’s the treatment? Depending on the underlying cause, itchy ears will have different solutions. As with most other medical conditions, there are several possible root conditions that may be impacting your ears. Among the most common are the following:
- You have an earwax blockage: If your ears are producing a substantial amount of wax, that’s not unusual. That’s because wax is helpful for your ears and (counter-intuitively) helps clean them! But this blockage can form for numerous reasons. One thing you should stop doing immediately is using cotton swabs to “clean” your ears. At any rate, we should be able to clear up most earwax blockages. So making an appointment can help give you some relief.
- Skin disorders: Occasionally, a skin condition can cause a reaction in spots you can’t itch. There’s even a condition called ear dandruff that can occur. Your doctor will be able to help you understand what your options are. putting moisturizer in your ear isn’t a feasible or safe solution, after all. Once again, your doctor will be the best person to help you deal with skin conditions that trigger itchy ears!
- Ear infections: Yes, the regular old ear infection might be the culprit behind your distress. Ear infections can arise at any age but happen more often when you’re younger. Ear infection can cause an accumulation of fluid in your ear. At the same time, the tissues in your ears can start to swell (thank you, inflammation). Combined, this can result in trapped fluid, irritated tissue, and really itchy ears. Treating the infection with your doctor’s help is the solution. Your ears will usually stop itching when the infection goes away.
- Improper hearing aid fitting: Your hearing aids should fit in your ears snugly. That’s how you get the best sound and the most successful results. But this snug fit can turn into irritation and itchiness when your hearing aids don’t fit correctly. Your hearing can be negatively affected if this causes you to stop using your hearing aids as often. Making an appointment with us for a proper fitting is the solution. We may even be able to mold your hearing aid so it fits your ear better.
- Allergies: Allergies are tricky, and it’s not uncommon for them to cause itching. You can often decrease your symptoms by using an over-the-counter allergy medication, such as an antihistamine. It’s frequently challenging to identify exactly what you’re having an allergic reaction to. But itchy ears can be a consequence of a wide variety of allergens, including pollen. Itchy ears could quickly come from your spring hay fever. If the itching persists, you should talk to an allergist about finding a solution (and relief).
Finding treatment for your itchy ears, and relief
Pretty much every activity becomes less fun with itchy ears. Finding the right treatment, and getting sustained relief can be absolutely life changing. Often, these itchy ears will not clear up on their own (and if they do, it’ll feel like it takes forever), so there’s no point in attempting to wait it out, you’ll probably just extend your suffering.
If you find that your itchy ears are driving you nuts, schedule an appointment with us so you can stop focusing on the itch, and get back to the regular, everyday activities you like.