We’ve all experienced that itch that seemed impossible to scratch.
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 done. Or, that itchy spot on your back that you just can’t seem to reach might spring to mind.
That’s really aggravating! Desperately attempting to scratch that itchy spot on your back. It’s why back-scratchers exist.
Regrettably, when you have an itchy ear, there isn’t any device to get at it. That itchy feeling is coming from inside your ear canal, someplace that you physically can’t reach (regardless how hard you try). It’s even worse than that spot on your back, and it isn’t shocking that itchy ears are probably driving you crazy.
Itchy ears can impact your everyday life
At first glance, it sounds like a small thing. It’s only itchy ears, right? At least your ears aren’t in pain or burning or throbbing.
Here’s something to think about: There’s no alleviation for an itchy ear. No fuss, if it only occurs from time to time. But what if your ears are continuously itchy? It may end up having a real impact on your quality of life.
Maybe the feeling is so unpleasant that you stop going out for dinner or seeing friends. Maybe you begin listening to music at increasing volumes trying to drown out that itchy feeling.
It stinks. But treatments and strategies do exist. Discovering the best way to deal with itchy ears means knowing what causes them in the first place.
So what causes your ears to itch?
So what’s the cause of that itch? And what can be done about it? The solution for itchy ears is going to differ depending on the root cause. Your ears could be being affected by many root causes, as with most medical conditions. Here are a few of the most prevalent:
- You have an earwax blockage: If your ears are creating a substantial amount of wax, that’s not abnormal. You may be surprised to find out that wax is actually cleaning your ears. But this blockage can develop for a number of reasons. One thing you should stop doing immediately is using cotton swabs to “clean” your ears. In any case, we should be able to remove most earwax blockages. So you will get some relief by making an appointment with us.
- Improper hearing aid fitting: Your hearing aids should fit into your ears snugly. This will produce the best results and the best sound. But this snug fit can turn into irritation and itchiness when your hearing aids don’t fit correctly. Your hearing can be negatively impacted if this causes you to stop wearing your hearing aids as often. The solution is to come in and see us for a proper fitting. We may even be able to mold your hearing aid so it better fits your ear.
- Allergies: Allergies can sometimes cause itching. In some instances, an over-the-counter allergy medicine, such as an antihistamine, can relieve itching due to allergies. It can be tricky to pin down, sometimes, precisely what you’re allergic to. But itchy ears can be caused by a large number of allergens, including pollen. Itchy ears could quickly come from your spring hay fever. If the itching persists, you should consult an allergist about finding a solution (and relief).
- Skin disorders: Certain skin disorders can, occasionally, cause itching that is hard to get at. You can even end up with a condition called ear dandruff. Your doctor will be able to help you determine what your solutions are. Using moisturizer in your ear isn’t a practical or safe solution, after all. If you have this type of skin condition, your doctor is, once again, your best bet.
- Ear infections: Yes, the regular old ear infection may be the reason for your misery. Prevalent in youth, ear infections can continue to happen at any age. Ear infection can cause an accumulation of fluid in your ear. In addition, the tissues in your ears can start to become inflamed. Combined, this can lead to trapped fluid, irritated tissue, and extremely itchy ears. The solution is to consult your doctor and manage the root infection. Your ears will usually stop itching when the infection clears up.
Finding relief for your itchy ears
Pretty much every activity becomes less enjoyable with itchy ears. Your life can actually be changed by getting relief with the proper treatment. Usually, 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 likely just prolong your suffering.
If you find that your itchy ears are driving you crazy, schedule an appointment with us so you can stop focusing on the itch, and get back to the normal, everyday activities you enjoy.