Getting Concerned for Itchy Ears and Their Impact on Hearing

Ears

It’s common for people to scratch your ears from time to time when they feel itchy. Itchy ears can be a nuisance, yet they must not be disregarded because if they’re not treated properly, they can lead to serious hearing problems. While it’s okay to scratch your ears occasionally, doing it too often can irritate the skin inside your ear and lead to inflammation.

Try to look at some of the reasons behind these itchy ears and gauge the impact of putting up with itchy ears and scratching them too much:

1) Wax Buildup

If you scratch your ears too much, you might have a lot of earwax buildup. When you scratch your ear, you’re pushing the earwax further into your ear, which can cause a blockage. This can cause hearing problems because it can block your ear canal and make it difficult for sound waves to reach your eardrum. It’s important to clean your ears on a regular basis.

2) Overcleaning

On the flip side, if you scratch your ears constantly in an attempt to clean them, you may wind up causing way too much harm. After all, the skin within your ear may become inflamed and irritated as a result. In an effort to defend itself from excessive cleaning, it may also cause your ear to create more ear wax. It can create a cycle that would eventually affect your hearing in the long run. 

3) Ear Infection

An ear infection entails an inflammation of the middle ear that can cause pain, fever, and other symptoms. Ear infections are often caused by bacteria or viruses, which can be very painful. These are most common in young children, but they can occur at any age. Because of the ear infection, there can be a considerable itch that can lead to scratching and evident hearing loss.

4) Skin Condition 

Certain skin conditions, like eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis, can cause you to scratch your ears excessively, which leads to the skin inside your ear being dry, itchy, and inflamed. These conditions can cause the skin to become dry and cracked, which can make it more susceptible to infection.

5) Allergic Reaction

The skin inside of your ears may become inflamed and itchy due to an allergy to something in your surroundings, such as dust, pollen, animal dander, or even food. This can lead to you excessively scratching your ear, which can further irritate the skin and cause an infection. It can be very unpleasant and even difficult to hear at times.

6) Jewelry Irritation

Wearing jewelry can be a great way to accessorize your outfit and add a little bit of personality. However, it’s important to be aware that wearing earrings or piercings can irritate the skin inside of your ears. Furthermore, the jewelry may also trap bacteria against the skin, which can lead to an infection. It’s important to be wary of the jewelry material you’re using.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ear itchiness is extremely typical and is not a sign of anything significant. However, there are situations when what you do or don’t do can make them itchy or worsen a condition. If the itchiness is accompanied by the above symptoms, it’s best to see a doctor to rule out any underlying issues.

Hoping to take a hearing test in Langley, BC? At Beltone Hearing Centre in Langley and Abbotsford, we take an approach to hearing care that no other company can match. Get in touch with us today! 

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