What causes itchy ears?

Nov 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lu Cheng

Introduction

Itchy ears may be caused by earwax buildup, dry skin, foreign body intrusion, external otitis, or external auditory canal eczema. Symptoms can be improved through methods such as cleaning the ear canal, moisturizing care, removing foreign objects, or medical treatment. If itching persists or is accompanied by redness, swelling, or pus discharge, prompt medical attention is necessary. Excessive or impacted earwax can irritate the skin of the ear canal and cause itching, which is often intermittent.

Itchy ears may be caused by earwax buildup, dry skin, foreign body intrusion, external otitis, or external auditory eczema. Symptoms can be improved through ear canal cleaning, moisturizing care, removal of foreign objects, or medical treatment. If itching persists or is accompanied by redness, swelling, or pus discharge, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Earwax buildup: Excessive or hardened earwax can irritate the ear canal skin, causing intermittent itching. Gently wipe the outer part of the ear canal with a cotton swab; avoid inserting anything deeply into the ear canal. Seek professional medical help for safe removal if needed.

2. Dry skin: Dry environments or over-cleaning can lead to moisture loss and shedding of the ear canal's skin, resulting in dryness-related itching. Reduce the frequency of ear cleaning and apply a gentle moisturizer around the ears. Avoid scratching with fingers.

3. Foreign body intrusion: Small insects, dust, or other foreign objects entering the ear canal can irritate the mucous membrane, causing itching and possibly a sensation of something being inside the ear. Avoid attempting to remove it yourself. Try using a flashlight to coax a small insect out; if this fails, seek medical help promptly for proper removal.

4. External otitis: Bacterial or fungal infection of the ear canal leads to mucosal congestion and swelling, causing persistent itching, ear pain, and increased discharge. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may use medications such as ofloxacin ear drops, terbinafine hydrochloride cream, or cephalexin capsules to relieve symptoms.

5. External auditory eczema: Allergies or local irritation can trigger inflammation of the ear canal skin, leading to redness, papules, and itching, which may result in oozing after scratching. Under medical supervision, treatments such as calamine lotion, desonide cream, or loratadine syrup may be used to alleviate discomfort.

Maintain clean and dry ear canals, avoid frequent ear picking and the use of irritating cleaning products, stay away from allergens, eat a light diet, and engage in moderate exercise to strengthen overall health and reduce the occurrence of ear discomfort.

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What causes itchy ears during seasonal changes?

In general, seasonal ear itching may be caused by factors such as dry air, earwax buildup, allergies, eczema, or external otitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. In daily life, maintain healthy habits and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods such as Sichuan pepper, chili peppers, and garlic, as they may hinder recovery.

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How to treat itchy ears from frequently cleaning them

In general, frequent ear picking and itchy ears may be related to external physical irritation, skin allergies, fungal infections, external otitis, or ear canal eczema. In addition, they may also be associated with conditions such as chronic otitis media. It is recommended that patients seek medical attention promptly when experiencing discomfort, avoid blindly self-medicating, and follow standardized treatment under a doctor's guidance, which can help promote recovery.

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Can hydrogen peroxide be used to clean itchy ears?

Under normal circumstances, hydrogen peroxide refers to a solution of hydrogen peroxide, which can be used to clean itchy ears. The hydrogen peroxide in the solution rapidly decomposes and releases nascent oxygen, interfering with bacterial enzyme systems, exerting antibacterial effects, and reducing inflammatory responses, thereby relieving ear itching. However, when using hydrogen peroxide, it should be administered drop by drop.

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What causes itchy ears?

In general, ear itching may be caused by seasonal changes, earwax buildup, foreign body intrusion, allergic reactions, eczema, etc. It can be treated with general management measures or medications. It is important to keep the ear canal clean and dry, avoid frequent ear picking, and reduce the use of items such as earplugs to prevent ear discomfort.