If your itchiness persists, it may be a symptom of a much more serious problem.

Why Do My Ears Feel Itchy?

by | Jan 15, 2023 | Hearing Health, Patient Resources

If you’ve ever experienced an itchy feeling in your ears, you know how uncomfortable and annoying it can be. It’s difficult to ignore and can even be painful at times. But why do our ears feel itchy? 

In this article, I’ll explore the possible causes of itchy ears and discuss some potential treatments. Various factors, including allergies, skin conditions, and infections, can cause itchy ears. 

Allergies can cause an itchy feeling in the ears due to an allergic reaction to something in the environment. Skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis can cause an itchy feeling in the ears and infections like swimmer’s ear.

We’ll also look at some tips for preventing itchy ears in the future. By this post’s end, you should better understand why your ears feel itchy and how to manage the discomfort. So, if you’re ready to learn more about itchy ears, let’s get started! 

Why Do My Ears Itch?

Itchiness in the ears can be caused by a variety of things, including allergies, eczema, an infection, or even a buildup of earwax. If the itching persists, it is best to see a doctor to determine the cause and get the appropriate treatment.

Causes of Itchy Ears

  • Allergies
  • Earwax buildup
  • Dry skin
  • Skin irritation from wearing earrings
  • Fungal infection
  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Swimmer’s ear
  • Insect bites
  • Hair follicle infection

Do Hearing Aids Help?

No, hearing aids do not directly help to relieve itchy ears. Itchy ears can be caused by a variety of factors, such as the ones listed above. 

If the itchy ears are caused by irritation from wearing hearing aids, then new hearing aids may help to relieve the itchiness by providing a better fit and reducing the amount of pressure on the ear.

If the itchy ears are caused by allergies, infection, or dry skin, then hearing aids will not help to relieve the itchiness. In these cases, it is essential to consult a doctor to determine the cause of the itchiness and to receive appropriate treatment. 

Treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, or other treatments depending on the cause.

How to Prevent Itchy Ears

1. Avoid putting anything in your ears

It’s important to avoid putting anything in your ears, such as cotton swabs, bobby pins, or your fingers. These can cause irritation and damage to the delicate skin inside your ear canal.

2. Keep your ears clean

Cleaning your ears regularly can help prevent itchy ears. Use a washcloth to clean the outside of your ears gently. Do not insert anything into your ear canal.

3. Avoid water in your ears

Water can cause irritation and lead to itchy ears. When showering or swimming, use earplugs or a swim cap to keep water out of your ears.

4. Avoid irritants

Avoid using products that contain alcohol, fragrances, or other irritants near your ears. These can cause irritation and lead to itchy ears.

5. Use a humidifier

Dry air can cause itchy ears. Using a humidifier in your home can help keep the air moist and reduce itching.

6. Use a mild soap

When washing your face or body, use a mild soap that is free of fragrances and other irritants.

7. Wear a hat

Wearing a hat can help keep your ears warm and reduce itching.

8. Use a cold compress

Applying a cold compress to your ears can help reduce itching.

9. Use over-the-counter medications

If an infection causes your itchy ears, you may need to use an over-the-counter medication, such as an antihistamine or a steroid cream.

10. Come see us

If your itchy ears are persistent or severe, you should see a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.

What Is the First Step to Treat Itchy Ears?

If your itchy ears have become an issue and none of the above recommendations provided relief, please schedule an appointment with us immediately. 

Our team is standing by to help you get your ears back to a healthy state that benefits your lifestyle day in and day out. 

Please contact us if you have questions regarding any aspect of your hearing. 

We are always here to help. 

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Dr. Natan Bauman

For more than 40 years, I have had the honor and opportunity of helping thousands of local, national, and international people to achieve a better life through better hearing. As an audiologist and electronic engineer, I have changed the course of the hearing aid industry by inventing the Receiver-In-The-Canal, the most widely used hearing aid in the world. Additionally, I established a tinnitus and sound over-sensitivity clinic and developed a special treatment program which I have been teaching to other practitioners nationally and internationally. Our practice follows the key principles that have defined my career: an adherence to best practices, use of the latest technologies, and personalized care in which the patient is treated as family.

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