7 Reasons itchy ears

Although small, but the ear plays an important role in human life everyday. Because it is filled with sensitive nerve fibers, so if there is a slight disturbance, the ear can give a certain reaction, one of which is the onset of itching.

Itchy ears are often regarded as common. Though itchy ears may be a sign of other more serious conditions. Knowing the various possible causes can make you better equipped to handle the condition. The following five are the most common causes:

Ear infections (otitis externa)

External Otitis is an infection of the channel connecting the outer ear canal with the eardrum. This condition is also known as swimmer's ear because it often occurs in adults and children who spend a lot of time with swimming. The remaining water in the ear canal can be a bacterial breeding medium. In addition to itching and pain, infection can also cause red ear and swollen ears. Infections from damage to the outer lining of the ear can be caused by scratching, friction by the use of headphones, or cotton buds.

In certain cases, external otitis can spread to tissues outside the ear, such as the face and jaw, resulting in malignant external otitis. This condition is mostly caused by bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. If not treated immediately, this condition can be life threatening because it can weaken the immune system and spread to the brain.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a long-term (chronic) disease that attacks the skin. Symptoms of psoriasis include a red rash, thickened skin, peeling, and feel dry and scaly. Skin cells with psoriasis develop faster than usual, so dead skin cells accumulate and lead to dry skin and itchy skin. This condition mainly occurs in the age group of 15-35 years. While usually arise on the knee, lower back, elbow or scalp, psoriasis can also occur in the ear.

Dry skin

Dry skin on the ear can occur when the ears do not produce enough wax as a lubricant. In addition to itching, you may also find skin peeling from the inside of the ear.

Dermatitis of the ear canal

This condition occurs due to inflammation of the skin in the ear and ear canal. Generally this condition can occur as an allergic reaction to foreign objects, such as the use of jewelry or beauty products.

Use of hearing aids

The ear can react allergic to the hearing aids used. In addition, this tool can also cause water trapped inside the ear.

Rhinitis

Inflammation of the nasal cavity may be seasonal or persistent. This condition can be either allergic or not. Allergic rhinitis occurs when the immune system detects and expels foreign objects or allergens by releasing histamine. In addition to a watery nose and frequent sneezing, itching of the ears may occur.

Stacking of ear candles

The body can produce too much ear wax so there is a buildup in the ear canal. These waxes actually play a role in protecting the inner ear from bacteria and dust. But the use of cotton bud can make this candle just getting into the ear and closed the ear so that the pain and itchy arise.

Handling the itchy ear will be adjusted to the cause of the condition. In general, the following ways can be done:

If it is caused by the use of beauty products, its use should be discontinued.

Avoid putting objects in the ear that are at risk of causing irritation.

Clean your ears regularly on your ENT doctor or take a free ear-drop earwait. Avoid cleaning it yourself with objects, such as a cotton bud or a hair clip.

Wear anti-allergenic jewelry to avoid itching due to allergies.

People who often swim can wear earplugs or clean water that goes into the ear regularly.

Although generally harmless, but immediately consult a doctor if itchy ears are experienced also accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, swollen ears, discharge from the inside of the ear, and blood out of the ear. ENT specialists (ear nose throat) can prescribe antibiotic ointment, hydrocortisone or betamethasone cream, baby oil, or steroid ointment to relieve inflammation.