What makes ears itch inside

This irritation then blocks the Eustachian tube, making the ears itchy, full, or congested. You might experience a popping of the ears or hearing loss, which resolves itself when the cold has passed. The flu can also cause similar symptoms in the ears, which tend to resolve themselves. However, the flu can also cause sensorineural hearing loss, which is more serious. This is when the nerves in the inner ear that transmits sound signals to the brain become damaged.

This happens when the flu virus attacks the inner ear. This hearing loss can be permanent if not spotted and treated very quickly. It can be difficult to diagnose, so if you have the flu and experience any hearing loss, seek the advice of your health care professional immediately to protect your hearing.

If you are concerned about itchy ears caused by a cold or the flu, you can speak to your doctor or to an ENT specialist. They can advise you on the cause of your ear problems and identify the seriousness of the problem. While itchy ears are usually nothing to worry about, all symptoms in the ear should be monitored carefully, in case it develops into something more serious, so you can best protect your very precious hearing.

If you want to find out more about ear, nose, and throat conditions, including itchy ears or the hearing loss caused by colds and flu, then call Golla ENT on , for advice, diagnosis and treatment. Here are the top reasons your ears might itch, and what do about it:. The most common reason for itchy ears is a condition called seborrheic dermatitis , a type of rash that affects the sebaceous glands, which produce oil.

It can occur on the scalp and eyebrows, and in the ears. A mild case of seborrheic dermatitis causes the skin to flake, known as dandruff. When dermatitis is severe, the skin also may be red and intensely itchy. Your risk of seborrheic dermatitis increases with age, according to Dr. Hearing aids sometimes create itching because the domes or earmolds cause irritation by rubbing against the skin.

They also block the ear canal, which can cause moisture buildup. Rarely, some people become allergic to a component of the hearing aid. If your hearing devices cause your ears to itch, talk to your hearing health professional. If the skin in your ears is dry, they may recommend using a product such as MiraCell ProEar, which makes hearing devices easier to insert and more comfortable to wear.

Also be sure to clean your hearing aids regularly. Ask your hearing care provider for guidance if you're not sure about how to clean hearing aids. If you frequently wear earbuds a type of headphone that sits just inside the ear canal , keep in mind that overuse can lead to ear irritation, including swelling and itchiness. In severe cases, unclean earbuds can trigger an outer ear infection otitis externa , more commonly known as swimmer's ear.

First, don't put anything in your ears. Not only do you risk damaging the eardrum and scratching the delicate skin of the inner ear, you also increase your urge to itch. Daveluy said.

Instead, try treating the underlying problem. Why Do My Ears Itch? The truth is that itch may arise for a number of reasons. Ear infection Sometimes, the first symptom of an ear infection can be itchiness inside your ear. Earwax buildup Earwax is your friend. Hearing aids If you are new to wearing a hearing aid, you may experience some itchiness at first.

Allergies Allergies to pollen, dust mites and animal dander can cause itchiness in the ears as well as in your eyes and throat.

Special Offer. And that can lead to earwax buildup. Earwax generally comes out of the ear canal on its own. And you can wash it away from your outer ear when you bathe. What to do: You can typically treat earwax buildup at home.

Woodson advises. Dermatologic conditions like eczema and psoriasis can surface on various areas of the skin — and make you itch.

Woodson explains. What to do: If your ears itch and you have a condition like eczema or psoriasis, see your dermatologist, or an ear, nose and throat specialist. Itchiness is one early symptom of an ear infection.