
Feeling an itch deep inside your ear isn’t just a minor inconvenience — it could be your body’s way of signalling that something’s not quite right. This type of inner ear itching is often caused by irritation to the sensitive lining of the ear canal.
In some cases, the irritation may be due to a mild infection, the early stages of otitis media, or lingering inflammation after a cold. Environmental triggers such as allergens, dust, or pollution can also play a role, leading to a constant tickling sensation that makes you want to scratch.
Although it might seem harmless at first, persistent inner ear itching should not be ignored. Identifying the cause early on is key to protecting your ear health and preventing potential complications.
Experiencing itching in the outer and inner ear can result from a variety of factors, especially in Australia where environmental conditions and lifestyle habits play a significant role. Common triggers include exposure to native allergens like pollens, skin conditions influenced by the climate such as eczema, and frequent moisture from water activities. Infections due to warm climates and systemic conditions like diabetes can also contribute to ear irritation. Understanding these causes is crucial for effective management and prevention of ear itching.
An ear canal inflammation can also result from an allergic reaction of the skin in the ear: shampoos, hair sprays, but also antibiotic ear drops are often to blame. Change your care products. Do you notice itchy ears with hay fever? Then the allergy is probably the reason. However, if the itchy ears are accompanied by hearing loss, pain and possibly even fever, you should see a doctor.
Can hearing aids cause an allergy?
An itchy ear may also be associated with an intolerance or allergic reaction to a hearing aid. You can find more information about allergic reactions to hearing aids in our article: Hearing aids & allergies
Constant ear itching is not normal – healthy ears very rarely itch. If you find yourself experiencing persistent ear itch, it’s important to investigate the underlying cause. First, it’s essential to pinpoint exactly where the itch is occurring:
Determining the precise location of the itch is the first step towards understanding its cause and finding the appropriate treatment.
The cause of the feeling that the inner ear itches, is usually associated with irritation of the mucous membranes in the throat. It feels like your ears are itching. A cold, whether you can feel it or not, does not affect the inner ear, but it does affect the pharynx around the tonsils. Nevertheless, the impression that is created is that the ears itch when you have a cold.
Particularly in children but sometiems also adults, the first sign of a middle ear infection is an itchy ear. So if the child asks, "Why does my ear itch?" and describes that the ears itch from the inside, that can be a valuable clue. If these first warning signs are perceived, a painful middle ear infection can often still be prevented with rest, nasal spray and home remedies.
Some people scratch their ears frequently. Often this is a habit that is not based on an itch at all. Perhaps it is done so you can concentrate better or because you don't know where to put your hands in an uncomfortable situation. However, if it itches in the outer ear and around the ear, this may also be due to skin diseases such as psoriasis, neurodermatitis or a skin fungus.
Such skin diseases are more common around the scalp. It is also possible that the skin is only affected by too much hygiene: If you constantly use care products to clean your face, you can destroy the healthy protective layer of the skin. This results in itching.
Itchy ears are a common issue for many hearing aid users, especially when adjusting to a new device. The ear canal is sensitive, and changes introduced by the hearing aid can lead to irritation.
A poor fit is often the cause — too tight can cause pressure, too loose can lead to friction. An audiologist can usually adjust the fit for better comfort.
Earwax buildup is another factor, as hearing aids may trigger increased wax production. Regular cleaning of the ears and device helps prevent blockages and itching.
Some people may react to the materials used in hearing aids, or experience irritation from trapped moisture or bacteria. Good hygiene is essential.
While some itching is normal at first, ongoing discomfort should be checked by an audiologist to find the right solution.
What to do with itchy ears? This will depend on the cause of the itch:
Very important: No matter how tormenting the itching in your ears may be, you should never put sharp objects in your ears. Not only that the eardrum could be injured: the skin in the ear canal can be easily scratched. Since an infection by bacteria is often the reason for the itchy ears, the germs then have an even easier time penetrating the skin.
But cotton swabs should also stay outside. With them you unintentionally push the earwax deeper into the ear. This can result in unpleasant and sometimes painful plugs.
When considering home remedies for ear itching, it's important to proceed cautiously and consult with a healthcare professional first, especially if symptoms are persistent or severe. For mild cases of ear itching, you can try:
Remember to avoid excess moisture in the ears and consider over-the-counter ear drops formulated for mild itching — but always seek guidance from a pharmacist or healthcare provider before use.
If ear itching persists or worsens, or if you experience other symptoms like pain or discharge, seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Constant itching in the ear is not only nerve-wracking, it could also be caused by an illness. So if you have the impression that your ear is constantly itching over a long period of time, go to an ear, nose and throat doctor. The doctor can use an otoscopy to determine the cause of the itching. The same goes for pain, of course. You shouldn't wait too long, especially when the symptom arises in children.
Are you experiencing a decrease in your hearing ability or would like to get advice on your overall hearing health? Take a free hearing test in one of our Amplifon clinics with one of our hearing specialists.
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