Suffering with itchy ears is a common health concern that can be the result of many variables. Diagnostic conclusions are made through otoscopy, wherein an otoscope is used to look into the ear so that an accurate diagnosis may be confirmed. Like any medical diagnosis, it is best to get a second opinion if the treatment prescribed is not effective for you.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Itchy ears may be caused by seborrheic dermatitis, a condition caused by dry, flaky earwax accumulation. Similar to dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis is treated the same as other parts of the body suffering from eczema or other allergen-related itching. Allopathic physicians traditionally use steroid creams for ear related dermatitis.
Alternative Treatment
Non-traditional practitioners such as homeopaths, naturopathic physicians or herbalists may offer effective natural treatments for long-term itch relief. Homeopathic remedies are complementary to any traditional regime, as they do not compete with mainstream medicine. An herbalist may recommend medicinally infused herbal oils to increase moisture in the ear canal while removing stubborn wax. A naturopathic physician may use an assortment of internal and external nutritional support, utilizing herbs, homeopathy, vitamins and other alternative options to eliminate the current dermatitis and prevent further episodes.
Oils
Some traditional doctors recommend baby oil for itchy ears. Baby oil is considered by some doctors to be a safe emollient for skin moisturizing. Baby oil is derived from petroleum products, which most alternative caregivers do not consider healthy. According to master herbalist Rosemary Gladstar, a natural alternative to baby oil is extra virgin olive oil. You can infuse olive oil with garlic and mullein leaf for a ear drop that boasts anti-fungal and anti- inflammatory properties. Consult a certified herbalist for instructions about infusing oils.
Warning
The ear canal has very sensitive tissue lined by small hairs called villi. The villi are responsible for moving sound waves toward the ear drum so that you can hear the vibrations which are translated as comprehensive sound. Using objects or fingers to scratch your ear canal may cause damage and scarring to delicate tissues and a reduction in villi effectiveness and hearing ability.
Considerations
Medical anthropologists suspect adults who suffer from itchy ears may pass the condition on to their children. Children with itchy ears may be more likely to scratch their ears with unclean fingers or objects, increasing the risk of chronic ear infections. Teach children to tell you when their ears itch instead of scratching to prevent the occurrence of infection related to damaged skin.
Allergies
Itchy ears may also be caused by environmental or food allergens, which can be ruled out with the use of an allergy test. Naturopathic doctors and homeopaths may be able to offer effective treatment for allergies without using pharmaceutical drugs, which may have undesirable side effects.
References
- "The American Holistic Medical Association Guide to Holistic Health: Healing Therapies for Optimal Wellness";Larry Trivieri Jr.; 2001
- "The Book of Herbal Wisdom: Using Plants as Medicines"; Matthew Wood; 1997
- "Rosemary Gladstar's Family Herbal: A Guide to Living Life with Energy, Health, and Vitality "; Rosemary Gladstar; 2001
- "Understanding and Applying Medical Anthropology"; Peter Brown and Ron Barrett; 2009
