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My Ears Itch A Lot. I Use Ear Plugs While
Question: My ears itch a lot. I use ear plugs while sleeping. please advise which ear drops i should be using?
Brief Answer:
Details as discussed below:
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. Itching of the ears is usually a referred sensation if the ears are normal on examination. Rule out dry flaky ear wax.
2. The ears share nerve supply of the head, neck and upper body. Any problem in this area may refer itching/ pain sensations to the ears. A local specialist can help examine for referred sensations.
3. Cleaning the ears and using bear plugs itself can worsen the situation. Ear canal skin is very thin and delicate. Even dry cotton can cause minute scratches. When these scratches heal, there is more itching. This sets up a vicious cycle of itching and scratching. Hence controlling self trauma is important.
4. I usually recommend Mullein ear oil (Homepathic) applied 2-3 times a week either directly as drops or on a earbud. Many other drops such as wax softening and anti-fungal ear drops are too harsh on the delicate ear canal skin for long term use.
5. An anti-allergy and anti-acid reflux tablet for two weeks will help.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Details as discussed below:
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. Itching of the ears is usually a referred sensation if the ears are normal on examination. Rule out dry flaky ear wax.
2. The ears share nerve supply of the head, neck and upper body. Any problem in this area may refer itching/ pain sensations to the ears. A local specialist can help examine for referred sensations.
3. Cleaning the ears and using bear plugs itself can worsen the situation. Ear canal skin is very thin and delicate. Even dry cotton can cause minute scratches. When these scratches heal, there is more itching. This sets up a vicious cycle of itching and scratching. Hence controlling self trauma is important.
4. I usually recommend Mullein ear oil (Homepathic) applied 2-3 times a week either directly as drops or on a earbud. Many other drops such as wax softening and anti-fungal ear drops are too harsh on the delicate ear canal skin for long term use.
5. An anti-allergy and anti-acid reflux tablet for two weeks will help.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
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