Itchy ears: what causes it and how to treat it?

An itchy inner ear canal is a common problem. This may trigger you to scratch while gouging into the inside of the ear. It is not recommended to do this, because it can cause abrasions and trauma to the ear canal. Then, what conditions cause itchy ears? How to handle it?

What are the causes of itchy ears?

The most common causes are fungal infections and some skin diseases such as psoriasis or contact dermatitis. Sometimes people who have an itchy allergy also complain that their ears are itchy too.

Sudden itching sensation in the ears, actually can be resolved by yourself by using an antihistamine while taking medication. However, this condition can be an indication that leads to an infection in the ear.

The following are some of the things that cause itchy ears, including infections:

1. Dirty ears

Your ears may itch from rarely cleaning. However, cleaning your ears should not be done carelessly. Don't use a cotton swab to scrape earwax, let alone use your fingernails.

Use over-the-counter ear drops containing hydrogen peroxide or sodium bicarbonate to clean your ears. You can also put a little baby oil or olive oil in the ear, and wait 5 minutes. This method can soften and then loosen earwax.

If the itching is bothersome, go to the doctor to clean your ears.

2. Your ears are dry

It turns out that the inner ear canal needs its own moisture. If your ears are dry, due to the production of wax or insufficient moisture, the result can be itchy. When the ears don't have enough moisture, sometimes the ears will peel off skin as a sign that your ears are not sufficiently moisturized.

Dry ears can be caused by excessive ear cleaning. Quoted from the Cleveland Clinic, earwax has antifungal and antibacterial properties to help prevent infection. Excessive cleaning can eliminate these benefits, putting you at an increased risk of developing itchy ears.

However, itching in the ears is also often a sign of wax buildup. However, when you experience a buildup of earwax (cerumen prop), you may experience other symptoms, such as pain or a smell in your ears.

3. Inflammation of the ear canal

Inflammation of the ear canal is a condition that occurs when the skin in and around the ear canal becomes inflamed. This condition can be caused by an allergic reaction to the products you use on the ear or in the area around it.

Examples of products that can cause this condition are shampoos, hair gels, hair sprays, hair dyes and perfumes. Allergic reactions may occur due to the body's reaction to certain substances.

4. Outer ear canal infection

Otitis externa or an external ear infection can cause symptoms such as itching. The discomfort can vary to excruciating pain. This is commonly experienced by swimming athletes.

Otitis externa which causes symptoms in the form of itchy ears caused by atopic dermatitis. When you experience this condition, you may experience intense itching in your ears. In addition, the skin around the ears may become red, thickened, and itch more if scratched.

5. You wear a hearing aid

Hearing aids can cause water to become trapped in the ear. The humid condition of the inner ear invites bacteria and viruses to breed so that the ear is prone to itching. Also, poorly fitting hearing aids can put pressure on certain areas of the ear that can cause these symptoms.

6. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes a person to develop a red, itchy rash on the affected area due to an autoimmune process. Psoriasis can sometimes occur in visible parts of the body, such as the arms or even inside the ears. Not infrequently, a sudden itchy ear can be a symptom of psoriasis in the ear.

How do you deal with itchy ears?

Here are various ways to deal with itchy ears according to the cause.

1. Use oil to moisturize the ears

Symptoms that arise due to dry ears can be relieved by dripping a drop or two of vegetable oil or baby oil. This is done to help moisturize it. However, don't be careless! You are not allowed to put oil in your ear if you have an infection or if your eardrum has burst.

2. Clean the ears

Ears that are too dirty sometimes cause him to experience this symptom. If this happens, try to clean it either with oil, glycerin, or special ear drops which usually contain hydrogen peroxide. Usually the dirt that starts to soften will come out on its own.

Don't use cotton bud to clean your ears, instead of the wax coming out but it can push it deeper into the ear making it harder to remove the wax. If you are afraid to clean it yourself, go to your ENT doctor for help.

3. Discontinue use of certain products

Sometimes the ear will itch as an allergic reaction. Whether shampoo, earrings, or anything else. That way, immediately stop using it so that the itching sensation that appears does not get worse. If it does not subside, consult a doctor immediately. Usually, the doctor will prescribe antihistamine drugs or allergy shots if needed.

4. Using doctor's medication

Itching caused by infection or other health conditions needs to be treated with medication and care from a doctor. By treating the disease that carries it, the condition of your ears will also gradually improve.

Antihistamines, antibiotics, and also antifungals can be given as a way to treat itchy ears, according to the cause. Meanwhile, corticosteroid ear drops are also quite effective in dealing with these symptoms and reducing inflammation.

Always consult a doctor first before using drugs to treat this condition. Don't just use ointments or ear drops without knowing their content and function. In addition, schedule regular appointments with ENT doctors to help maintain ear hygiene and health.