Itchy ears and ear health

Do you experience itchy ears? Itching in the ear canal is a common complaint and can be both irritating and disruptive in everyday life. For most people, it is harmless, but persistent itching can be a sign that something is out of balance in the ear. There are several possible causes.

Dryness in the ear canal

Earwax serves an important purpose – it protects the skin in the ear canal and acts as a natural moisturiser. If there is too little earwax, the skin can become dry, sore and itchy. This is often seen in people who clean their ears frequently or use cotton swabs.

Too much earwax

Ironically, both too little and too much earwax can cause itching. When earwax builds up and forms a blockage, it can irritate the skin in the ear canal and cause discomfort, itching and reduced hearing.

Eczema or skin irritation

Skin conditions such as eczema can also affect the ear canal. This can cause itching, redness, flaking and, in some cases, discharge. Allergic reactions to materials in headphones, earplugs or hearing aids can also cause irritation and itching.

Ear canal infection

An infection in the ear canal (otitis externa) often starts with itching and can develop into pain, swelling and discharge. The condition is more common after swimming or when there is excess moisture in the ear.

Water in the ear

Moisture in the ear canal creates an environment where bacteria and fungi can thrive. If water remains in the ear after showering or swimming, this can cause itching and increase the risk of infection.

Allergies

Allergies can cause itching in the ear canal, even without direct contact. The nose and ear are connected through the Eustachian tube, so allergic reactions in the nose can affect pressure, ventilation and comfort in the ears.

Hearing aids or earphones

Prolonged use of hearing aids or earphones can cause mechanical irritation of the skin in the ear canal. In some cases, allergic reactions to plastic or silicone materials may also occur.

Ear health – good habits for healthy ears

Taking care of your ears involves adopting good and preventative habits. Small adjustments in your everyday routine can help reduce itching, irritation and the risk of ear problems.

Avoid cleaning deep inside the ear

Do not use cotton swabs or other objects inside the ear canal. This can push earwax further into the ear and damage the skin. A small amount of earwax is completely normal and necessary to protect the ear from infections.

Remove earwax when necessary

If you have excessive earwax, it can be removed using ear spray followed by ear irrigation, either by yourself, through your GP, an audiologist or an ENT specialist. The latter has more advanced equipment and can remove excess earwax using microsuction.

Keep your ears dry – but don’t dry them out

Gently dry the outer ear after showering or swimming. Avoid drying deep inside the ear canal, as this can lead to dryness and irritation.

Be gentle with the skin in your ears

Avoid scratching or picking at your ears with your fingernails or other objects. Even small scratches can make the skin more vulnerable to infection and worsen itching. You may consider using a skin-friendly ointment on the outer ear and the outer part of the ear canal.

We recommend trying calendula ointment, which you can read more about here: Calendula ointment

Protect your ears from noise

Loud noise can damage your hearing and increase stress on your ears. Use hearing protection in noisy environments, both at work and during leisure activities.

Use hearing aids and earphones correctly

Clean your hearing aids and earphones regularly to prevent bacterial growth. You can wipe them down with alcohol-based cleaning wipes. Make sure they fit properly in the ear canal so they do not cause pressure or friction.

Maintain good nasal and airway health

A blocked nose and sinus problems can affect pressure in the ears. Treating allergies or a cold can therefore contribute to better ear comfort.

Seek professional help when needed

If you experience persistent itching, pain, discharge or hearing loss, you should consult an ENT specialist or audiologist for a thorough examination.

The right diagnosis and treatment can help prevent your symptoms from getting worse.

Our ears do an important job every day – a little extra care can make a big difference to both comfort and ear health. 👂

Contact us for an ear check-up and more information: Call 990 99 779 or contact us via https://www.audioplus.no/kontakt-oss-audioplus