We’ve all experienced that itch that seemed impossible to scratch.
Alright, there are two ways to think about it: The first thing you may think about 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 annoying! Desperately trying to scratch that itchy spot on your back. That’s why we created back-scratchers.
Regrettably, when you’re dealing with an itchy ear, there isn’t any device to get at it. That itching sensation is coming from inside your ear canal, somewhere that you physically can’t reach (no matter how hard you try). If you’re ear itches like this, it’s even more frustrating than that spot on your back.
Itchy ears can affect your daily life
On the surface, it sounds like a minor thing. 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. No big deal, if it only occurs from time to time. But what if your ears are always itchy? It could end up having a significant affect on your quality of life.
Perhaps you stay home and quit interacting with friends. Or perhaps you try to overpower the sensation by listening to overly loud music.
It sucks. But treatments and strategies do exist. Discovering the best way to deal with itchy ears means understanding what causes them in the first place.
So what causes your ears to itch?
So why are your ears itchy? And what’s the solution? The solution for itchy ears is going to differ depending on the root cause. As with most other medical conditions, there are several possible underlying conditions that could be affecting your ears. Amongst the most common are the following:
- Improper hearing aid fitting: Your hearing aids should fit in your ears snugly. 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. This, as a result, can cause you to stop wearing your hearing aids as often, and that can be bad for your hearing. 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.
- Allergies: Allergies can sometimes cause itching. You can often reduce your symptoms by using an over-the-counter allergy medicine, like an antihistamine. It can be tricky 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. So your spring hay fever could very easily translate into itchy ears. An allergist will be the best place to seek a solution to this.
- Ear infections: Yup, the plain old ear infection could be the reason for your misery. Ear infections can occur at any age but happen more often when you’re younger. Ear infection can cause fluid buildup in your ear. Along with fluid buildup, swelling of the tissue can happen. Together, this can result in trapped fluid, irritated tissue, and extremely itchy ears. The fix is to speak with your doctor and manage the underlying infection. Your ears will normally stop itching when the infection goes away.
- Skin disorders: Some skin disorders can, occasionally, cause itching that’s hard to get at. There’s even a disorder called ear dandruff that can occur. Your doctor will be able to help you understand what your options are. It isn’t exactly convenient to slather your ear canal with moisturizer, after all, nor would we ever suggest you try. Again, your doctor will be the best one to help you deal with skin conditions that trigger itchy ears!
- You have an earwax blockage: Look, it’s perfectly normal for your ears to create a copious amount of wax. You may be surprised to find out that wax is actually cleaning your ears. But there are a number of reasons why blockages can develop. One reason is due to the use of cotton swabs to “clean” your ears, so if you’re doing that, you should stop immediately. We can, in any case, help you get rid of any earwax troubles. So scheduling an appointment can help bring you some relief.
Finding treatment for your itchy ears, and comfort
Pretty much every activity becomes less enjoyable with itchy ears. Finding the best treatment, and getting lasting relief can be absolutely life changing. If you attempt to simply wait it out, you will likely prolong your suffering because it’s not likely that the itching will clear itself up.
If you decide that your itchy ears are driving you nuts, schedule an appointment with us so you can stop thinking about the itch, and get back to the regular, everyday activities you enjoy.