Have you ever had an itch that you just couldn’t reach?
You might consider this in a couple of different ways: The first thing you might think of is that bucket list item you just never seem to get to. Or, if you’re a little less of a romantic, you think about that spot on your back that you just can’t quite reach.
That’s kind of a terrible experience, right? Feeling that itch and being desperate to scratch that spot on your back. It’s the reason why back-scratchers exist.
Sadly, there isn’t a device that can relieve itching in your ears. That itchy feeling is coming from inside your ear canal, someplace that you physically can’t reach (no matter how hard you try). It’s worse than that spot on your back, and it isn’t shocking that itchy ears are probably driving you nuts.
Itchy ears can affect your everyday life
On the surface, it sounds like a minor thing. Itchy ears? It could be much worse, right? At least your ears aren’t aching or burning or throbbing.
But think about it: There’s no relief for an itchy ear. If it happens once in a while, sure, it’s not that big of a problem. But what if your ears are always itchy? You might find yourself, and your quality of life, significantly impacted.
Maybe the experience is so unpleasant that you stop going out for dinner or spending time with friends. Maybe you start listening to louder and louder music trying 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 step to discovering a suitable treatment.
So what are some of the causes of itchy ears?
So what’s causing that itch? And what can be done about it? The solution for itching ears is going to differ depending on the root cause. Your ears may be being impacted by many root causes, as with most medical conditions. Here are some of the most prevalent:
- Skin disorders: Certain skin disorders can, at times, trigger itching that’s difficult to get at. There’s even a condition called ear dandruff that can occur. Your doctor will be able to help you understand 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 person to help you deal with skin conditions that cause itchy ears!
- You have an earwax blockage: If your ears are generating a significant amount of wax, that’s not abnormal. You might be surprised to learn that wax is actually cleaning your ears. But this blockage can develop for a number of reasons. One thing you should quit doing right away is using cotton swabs to “clean” your ears. We can, in any case, help you clear up any earwax troubles. So you will get some relief by scheduling an appointment with us.
- Allergies: Allergies can sometimes cause itching. In some cases, an over-the-counter allergy medicine, such as an antihistamine, can ease itching caused by allergies. It can be hard to pin down, sometimes, precisely what you’re allergic to. But itchy ears can be caused by a wide variety of allergens, including pollen. Itchy ears could quickly come from your spring hay fever. If the itching continues, you should speak with an allergist about finding a solution (and relief).
- Ear infections: That’s correct, the cause of your itchy ears could be a normal ear infection. Prevalent in youth, ear infections can continue to strike at any age. Ear infection can cause fluid buildup in your ear. Along with accumulation of fluid, swelling of the tissue can take place. Really itchy ears can be the result of this trapped fluid and irritated tissue. 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: Hearing aids are designed to fit snugly in your ears. That’s how you get the optimum sound and the most effective results. But this snug fit can turn into irritation and itchiness when your hearing aids don’t fit properly. Your hearing can be negatively affected if this causes you to stop wearing your hearing aids as often. The solution is to come in and consult us for a proper fitting. We might even be able to mold your hearing aid so it fits your ear better.
Getting treatment for your itchy ears, and relief
Pretty much every activity becomes less enjoyable with itchy ears. Finding the best treatment, and getting lasting 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 ages), so there’s no point in attempting to wait it out, you’ll likely just extend your suffering.
Stop focusing on your itchy ears and get back to enjoying your life. Contact us for a consultation.