We’ve all experienced that itch that seemed impossible to scratch.
You may consider this in a couple of different ways: The first thing you may think about is that bucket list item you just never seem to get to. Or, that itchy spot on your back that you just can’t seem to reach may spring to mind.
That’s sort of a horrible experience, right? Desperately trying to scratch that itchy spot on your back. That’s why we invented back-scratchers.
Sadly, there isn’t a device that can alleviate itching in your ears. That itchy feeling is coming from inside your ear canal, someplace that you can’t physically reach (no matter how hard you try). It’s even worse than that spot on your back, and it’s not surprising that itchy ears are most likely driving you nuts.
Itchy ears can impact your daily life
It may sound like a minor issue, superficially. It’s just itchy ears, right? At least you’re not in horrible pain.
But think about it: There’s no relief for an itchy ear. No big deal, if it only happens now and then. But if your ears are itchy constantly? You might find yourself, and your quality of life, significantly impacted.
Perhaps you stay home and quit socializing with friends. Maybe you start listening to music at increasing volumes trying to drown out that itchy feeling.
It sucks. But there are solutions and treatments. Understanding what’s causing your itchy ears is the first measure to discovering the right treatment.
So what are some of the causes of itchy ears?
So what’s causing that itch? And what can you do about it? The solution for itchy ears is going to vary depending on the root cause. As with many other medical conditions, there are numerous possible root conditions that might be impacting your ears. Here are some of the most prevalent:
- Improper hearing aid fitting: Hearing aids are made to fit snugly in your ears. 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 frequently. The answer is to come in and see us for a proper fitting. We might even be able to mold your hearing aid so it better fits your ear.
- Allergies: Allergies are tricky, and it’s not unusual for them to trigger itching. You can sometimes minimize your symptoms by using an over-the-counter allergy medicine, like an antihistamine. It can be difficult to pin down, sometimes, precisely what you’re allergic to. But itchy ears can result from a wide variety 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: Sometimes, a skin condition can cause a response in places you can’t itch. You can even end up with a condition called ear dandruff. You should talk to your doctor about what your options are. putting moisturizer in your ear isn’t a practical or safe option, after all. Once again, your provider will be the best person to help you deal with skin conditions that cause itchy ears!
- Ear infections: That’s right, the source of your itchy ears can be a normal ear infection. Ear infections can arise at any time in life but happen more often when you’re younger. Ear infection can cause an accumulation of fluid in your ear. Along with fluid buildup, inflammation of the tissue can occur. Combined, this can lead to trapped fluid, irritated tissue, and really itchy ears. Addressing the infection with the help of your doctor is the solution. Your ears will usually stop itching when the infection goes away.
- You have an earwax blockage: Look, it’s completely normal for your ears to create a prodigious amount of wax. You may be surprised to learn that wax is actually cleaning your ears. But this blockage can form for a number of reasons. One thing you should quit doing immediately is using cotton swabs to “clean” your ears. We can, in any case, help you clear up any earwax difficulties. So you will get some relief by making an appointment with us.
Finding treatment for your itchy ears, and relief
Just about every activity becomes less fun with itchy ears. Finding the correct treatment, and getting sustained relief can be completely life changing. Often, these itchy ears will not clear up by themselves (and if they do, it’ll feel like it takes forever), so there’s no point in trying to wait it out, you’ll probably just extend your suffering.
Stop focusing on your itchy ears and get back to enjoying your life. Call us for a consultation.