We’ve all had that itch that seemed impossible to scratch.
Okay, there are two ways to consider it: First, you think about something you always wanted to do with your life but you never got around to (skydiving, for instance). Or, if you’re a little less of a romantic, you think about that spot on your back that you just can’t quite scratch.
That’s so annoying! Having that itch and being desperate to scratch that spot on your back. That’s why we created back-scratchers.
Unfortunately, there isn’t a device that can relieve itching in your ears. No matter how hard you try, you just can’t reach up into your ear canal where it’s itching. If you’re ear itches like this, it’s even more frustrating than that spot on your back.
Itchy ears can impact your daily life
On the surface, it sounds like a minor thing. It’s only itchy ears, right? At least you aren’t in horrible pain.
Here’s something to consider: There’s no relief for an itchy ear. If it happens now and then, sure, it’s not that big of a deal. But if your ears are itchy constantly? It might end up having a real affect on your quality of life.
Perhaps you stay home and stop socializing with friends. Or perhaps you try to overwhelm the sensation by listening to excessively loud music.
It’s not fun at all. But treatments and solutions do exist. Finding the best way to address itchy ears means understanding what causes them to begin with.
So what are some of the causes of itchy ears?
So what’s the cause of that itch? And what’s the treatment? The solution for itchy ears is going to differ depending on the root cause. Your ears may be being affected by many root causes, as with most medical conditions. Among the most prevalent are the following:
- Skin disorders: Sometimes, a skin disorder can cause a response in places you can’t reach. There’s even a condition called ear dandruff that can occur. Your doctor will be able to help you understand what your solutions are. putting moisturizer in your ear isn’t a practical or safe option, after all. Again, your doctor will be the best person to help you manage skin conditions that trigger itchy ears!
- Ear infections: Yes, the regular old ear infection might be the culprit behind your misery. Ear infections can happen at any age but happen more often when you’re younger. And when they do, fluid can accumulate in your ears. Along with accumulation of fluid, inflammation of the tissue can take place. Combined, this can result in trapped fluid, irritated tissue, and very itchy ears. The fix is to talk to your doctor and manage the root infection. Your ears will usually stop itching when the infection goes away.
- Improper hearing aid fitting: Your hearing aids should fit in your ears snugly. This will yield the best results and the best sound. But when your hearing aids don’t fit correctly, this snugness can quickly turn to irritation and itchiness. This, as a result, can cause you to stop using your hearing aids as frequently, and that can be bad for your hearing. 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.
- You have an earwax blockage: If your ears are producing a significant amount of wax, that’s not unusual. You might be surprised to learn that wax is actually cleaning your ears. But there are several reasons why blockages can form. One reason is because of the use of cotton swabs to “clean” your ears, so if that’s happening, you should stop immediately. We can, in any case, help you clear up any earwax troubles. So you will get some relief by making an appointment with us.
- Allergies: Allergies are tricky, and it’s not uncommon for them to trigger itching. You can sometimes minimize your symptoms by taking an over-the-counter allergy medicine, such as an antihistamine. It can be hard to pin down, sometimes, exactly what you’re allergic 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 continues, you should talk to an allergist about finding a solution (and relief).
Getting treatment for your itchy ears, and relief
Itchy ears can take the fun out of just about anything. Finding the right treatment, and getting sustained relief can be completely life changing. Often, these itchy ears will not go away 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 likely just extend your suffering.
If you decide that your itchy ears are driving you nuts, make an appointment with us so you can stop focusing on the itch, and get back to the regular, everyday activities you like.