Have you ever had an itch that you just couldn’t reach?
Alright, there are two ways to consider it: First, you consider something you always wanted to do in life but so far you haven’t got around to (skydiving, for example). Or, if you’re a bit less of a romantic, you think about that spot on your back that you just can’t quite scratch.
That’s sort of a terrible experience, isn’t it? Feeling that itch and being desperate to scratch that spot on your back. That’s why we created back-scratchers.
Sadly, there’s no such device that can get rid of itching in your ears. That itchy feeling is coming from inside your ear canal, someplace that you physically can’t reach (regardless how hard you try). It’s worse than that spot on your back, and it isn’t surprising that itchy ears are probably driving you mad.
Your everyday life can be affected by itchy ears
It may sound like a minor issue, superficially. Itchy ears? It could be worse, right? At least you aren’t in terrible pain.
But think about it: There’s no relief for an itchy ear. If it occurs from time to time, sure, it’s not that big of a problem. But if your ears are itchy constantly? It could end up having a significant impact on your quality of life.
Maybe the feeling is so unpleasant that you stop going out for dinner or spending time with friends. Maybe you start listening to music at increasing volumes attempting to drown out that itchy feeling.
It’s not at all fun. But there are strategies and treatments. Understanding 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 why are your ears itchy? And what can you do about it? Depending on the root cause, itchy ears will have different solutions. As with many other medical conditions, there are several possible root conditions that might be impacting your ears. Among the most common are the following:
- 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 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 remove most earwax blockages. So you will get some relief by scheduling an appointment with us.
- Allergies: Allergies can sometimes cause itching. You can often decrease your symptoms by using an over-the-counter allergy medicine, such as an antihistamine. It can be hard to pin down, sometimes, precisely what you’re allergic to. But itchy ears can be a consequence of a large number of allergens, including pollen. Itchy ears could quickly come from your spring hay fever. An allergist will be the best place to seek a solution to this.
- Ear infections: That’s correct, the source of your itchy ears can be a normal ear infection. Prevalent in youth, ear infections can continue to strike at any time. Ear infection can cause fluid buildup in your ear. At the same time, the tissues inside of your ears can begin to swell (thank you, inflammation). Together, this can lead to trapped fluid, irritated tissue, and very itchy ears. Treating the infection with your doctor’s help is the solution. Your ears will normally stop itching when the infection goes away.
- Skin disorders: Occasionally, a skin condition can cause a reaction in spots you can’t reach. You can even find yourself with a condition called ear dandruff. You should speak with your doctor about what your options are. It isn’t exactly simple to slather your ear canal with moisturizer, after all, nor would we ever suggest you try. Again, your provider will be the best one to help you treat skin conditions that cause itchy ears!
- 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 when your hearing aids don’t fit properly, this snugness can quickly turn into irritation and itchiness. Your hearing can be negatively impacted if this causes you to stop using your hearing aids as frequently. The answer is to come in and consult us for a proper fitting. We may even be able to mold your hearing aid so it better fits your ear.
Finding treatment for your itchy ears, and comfort
Itchy ears can take the fun out of pretty much anything. Your life can actually be changed by getting relief with the proper treatment. Usually, these itchy ears will not go away on their own (and if they do, it’ll feel like it takes ages), so there’s no point in trying to wait it out, you’ll likely just extend your suffering.
Stop focusing on your itchy ears and go back to enjoying your life. Contact us for a consultation.
