Itchy Ears inside Causes: Deep, and Throat, Meaning, Remedies

anatomy of the ear

What exactly do itchy ears mean? What causes the itching? Get to know the possible causes of itchy ears and the various available treatments that can be used to get rid of the problem.

Itchy ears refers to the uncomfortable irritating sensation within the ear structure, the itchiness is often in the outer ear i.e canal, earlobe, behind the ear and sometimes on the middle ear. The itching can be mild or in some cases severe or persistent. It can also affect either one ear or both. In some cases this problem is usually persistent at night.

Itchy Ears inside Causes

  1. SKIN INFECTIONS

Skin conditions that can severely damage the skin on any part of the body also affect ears and cause dryness, flaking, crusting and itching in the ear canal. Some of the skin conditions include:

  • Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis. Ear canal eczema in most cases is usually accompanied by symptoms such as flaking, scaling, itchy rash, and inflammation of the skin area around the ear. The cause of eczema could exposure to allergens or it could be a spontaneous infection such as chronic otitis externa.
  • Ear Psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that can affect the outer and inside of the ear. People with ear psoriasis will have dry flaky skin inside the ear, because of the skin rejuvenation cycle that accelerates the dead skin to pile up over the skin causing scaly patches. Psoriasis condition can spread to the rest of the face and neck.
  • Seborrheic Dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis can on rare cases cause flaking of the skin both outside and inside the ear.
  1. ALLERGIES

Allergens are the main causative agents of persistent itchy ear and it is triggered by an environmental factor such as pollen, dust or certain chemicals that come in contact with the skin of the ear. These environmental triggers are harmless but can cause an allergic reaction to an individual sensitivity to it.

  1. FUNGAL INFECTIONS

Ear fungal infection is also known otomycosis and it commonly affect people with ear liquid because moist environment provide an ideal breeding ground for the bacteria. The ear fungal infection is usually characterized by scaling and itchy rash. Ear fungal infection accounts for around 10% of those diagnosed with ear inflammation. The common cause of the infection is fungal species of candida and aspergillus.

  1. OTITIS EXTERNA

Otitis externa is the inflammation and swelling of the passage of the outer ear. Otitis externa is also known as swimmer’s ear. There are many factors that contribute to otitis externa, among them is water being trapped in the ears.  This condition is common among people who swim though it can affect any other person. Otitis externa is usually accompanied with symptoms such as itchiness of the ear canal, an ear discharge and pain. The treatment of this condition can involve use of either injectable or oral antibiotics, which are good in relieving the pain. Hydrocortisone containing antibacterial and antifungal agents can also be used to reduce the inner ear infection.

  1. EXCESSIVE EARWAX

Earwax is also known as cerumen and is naturally produced by the cells lining the ear canal. It plays an important role in moisturizing these skin cells, repelling insects that enter the ear canal as well as preventing infections. Small amounts of earwax naturally drain out on a constant basis but sometimes when the wax production is excessive or pushed in with cotton buds then it can become impacted and cause a range of symptoms from itching to pain and even slight impairment.

  1. OTITIS MEDIA

Otitis media is characterized by inflammation, earache and itchy ear on the space behind your eardrums. Though this condition is common in children, it can also affect adults too. When children are affected by otitis media, they will engage in persistent pulling of either one of the ears or both, cry, experience irritable periods of sleep, fever, reduce eating among other symptoms.
Persistent itchy ears or ear discharge might be an indication that you either have a faulty or clogged Eustachian tube. In such a situation it is advisable you seek medical help from a professional doctor.

  1. REGULAR SWIMMING

Various investigation have showed that 70% of regular swimmers have complains of ear itching problem than those that are not regular swimmers. The possible cause of this can be too much moisture and possible exposure to many bacteria and fungi in water.
To avoid being a victim of ear itchiness and ear infection due to swimming you need to use a swimming cap or earplugs when you go for swimming or use a cool blow dryer to remove any moisture after a shower or swimming.

  1. HEARING AIDS

Ill-fitted hearing aids exert pressure on some parts of your ears hence resulting to an allergic reaction to this hearing aid can lead to itchiness and inflammation within the ear.

  1. OTHER CAUSES

There are also many other factors and conditions that can cause itchy ears and they include Eczema, warm climatic conditions, ringworms, too little earwax, contact dermatitis, cold and flu, medications and  sticking blunt objects into the ears which can break your skin leading to germ entry especially bacterial.

Itchy Inner Ear and Throat

Itchy inner ears and throat is due to a condition known as allergic rhinitis. This can simply be defined as inflammation of the nose. This happens when you come in contact with environmental allergens such as pollen, dust or chemical substances. Also, itchy ear and throat can happen due to dehydration. Dehydration leads to drying of the mucus lining in the throat and as a result, you experience itching inside the throat. Dehydration also occurs as a result of side effect of certain medication or excessive smoking.
Itchy inner ear and throat can also be caused by certain viral and bacterial infections. Some of the symptoms associated with itchy inner ear and throat include:

  • Watery eyes
  • Sneezing
  • Itchy eyes nose and throats
  • Running nose
  • Tickle in throat and coughing
  • Stuffy nose, ( nasal congestion)
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Pain in the nose and ear
  • Pressure in the ear
  • Hearing loss after sometime
  • Post-nasal drip

Treatment for rhinitis includes avoiding allergens or medications (both over-the-counter and prescriptions). Treatment can also involve administration of antihistamines. Antihistamines substantially reduce the allergic response to certain allergens.
Antibiotics such as penicillin can also be administered to treat bacterial infections causing itchy ear and throat. Surgery is the last resort to correct any structural issues in the sinuses that may be causing the symptoms. Certain herbs such as green tea and licorice can also help to get rid of the problem.

Itchy Ears Allergies

Allergies to various allergy-causing-agents such as medicines, cleaning detergents, bathing products, pollen, pet dander, insect bites, dust, mites and foods can trigger allergic reactions that can cause general body itchiness, swollen face and ears.
The best way to deal with allergy is to avoid allergens, get allergy shots and trying over-the-counter antihistamines, among other treatments to manage the various symptoms that result from hay fever such as ear itchiness.

Home Remedies for Itchy Ears

Coconut Oil and Tea Tree Oil
Coconut oil has ingredients such as Lauric acid which has hydrating and nourishing properties that help to hydrate the skin. Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties that help to fight bacteria causing infection.
To use Tea tree oil and coconut oil:

  1. Mix 1 teaspoon of coconut oil with 2 drops of tea tree oil.
  2. Using an ear-dropper, place 1 drop of this mixture into your ear and another 1 drop around the ear
  3. Massage the area around your ears with this solution.
  4. Repeat this process 2 times a day for 1 week.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar is known to contain ingredients with antiseptic properties. The antiseptic properties of the vinegar will break down the yeast build up, relieve itchiness, clean the area of dead skin build up and kill any bacteria.
To use Apple cider vinegar:

  1. Mix apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of water.
  2. Using an ear dropper pour 2 drops of this solution onto the affected area
  3. Massage your ear gently.
  4. Leave the remedy to sit for 30 minutes and then wipe it clean with a wet towel.
  5. Repeat this process 2 times a day for 1 week.

Wet Cloth
To keep the white flakes in the ear canal from forming again you need to remove the crust and excess oils from your ear. This is very important as it facilitates the healing process.
To use wet cloth in this process:

  1. Dip a thin fiber cloth in lukewarm water and wring out the excess water.
  2. Gently remove the crust and flakes around the ear.
  3. In this process, be careful not to insert the cloth too deep into your ear canal.
  4. Repeat this process on a daily basis.

Olive Oil and Garlic Oil
Mixtures of olive oil and garlic oil have been used for a very long time as a remedy for itchy ear. The both oils together contain antibiotic and anti-fungal properties. These properties fight bacterial and fungal infections causing itchiness and inflammation in your ear. The two oils (olive and garlic oil), clears excess oils, yeast and dust particles from your ears.
To use a mixture of Olive and Garlic:

  1. Mix 3 tablespoon of olive oil and 3 tablespoon of garlic oil.
  2. Using an ear dropper, pour 2 drops of this mixture into your ear and areas around your ear.
  3. Massage areas around your ear for 2 minutes.
  4. Let the solution sit on the affected area for 30 minutes.
  5. Then, rinse your ear with clean lukewarm water.
  6. Do this once on a daily basis for 1 week.

Almond Oil
Almond oil is rich with large quantities of vitamin E and antioxidants, which promotes a healthy skin and removes flaky dry skin in the ears.
To use Almond Oil:

  1. Take a few drops of almond oil into the palm of the hand.
  2. Massage your ear gently in circular motions.
  3. Leave the oil on overnight.
  4. In the, morning rinse your ear clean with lukewarm water.
  5. Repeat the process once in a day for 1 week.
  6. Alternatively, using an ear dropper pour two drops of almond oil inside the ear canal and massage the outer part of the ear gently.

Alcohol and vinegar
Alcohol is antiseptic in nature. When used as a remedy for itchy ear, it melts the earwax away making the ear canal clean. Vinegar has acetic acid that kills the infection-causing bacteria.
To use Alcohol and Vinegar:

  1. Mix 1 part of alcohol with one part white vinegar
  2. Using an ear dropper, put 2 drops inside your ear canal.
  3. Hold it for a few minutes and then drain it out.
  4. Rinse off your ear clean with lukewarm water.
  5. Repeat this process, 2 times a day for 1 week.

Shea Butter
Take a pinch of pure shea butter and rub it on the area around your ears to treat dry flaky skin in the ears. Its deep emollient properties will treat white flakes in ears. Repeat this twice a day and let it get absorbed naturally.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera contains ingredients such as Allicin and antioxidants which restore the PH balance soothe inflammation and reduce swelling.
To use Aloe Vera:

  1. Peel an aloe vera plant leaf, open it up and extract its gel in a bowel.
  2. Using an ear dropper, put 2 drops of this extract into your ear canal
  3. Hold your ear for a few minutes then, draw the extract out.
  4. Do this 2 times a day for 1 week.
  5. Alternatively, add few drops to the dry flaky skin in your ear canal and massage gently. Repeat this process 2 times a day for 4 days.

Olive Oil
Olive oil contains ingredients that are rich in Vitamin E, antioxidants and oleic acid, which can heal, nourish and promote regeneration of new skin cells.
To use Olive Oil:

  1. Take an ear dropper, and pour 2 drops of this oil directly into your ear canal.
  2. Using your fingertips, massage the area to distribute the oil.
  3. Try this remedy for itchy ear canals once a week.

Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly is a powerful emollient, which alleviates itchy skin, removes dryness, helping the skin to lock in moisture a factor which accelerates the healing process.
To use petroleum Jelly:

  1. Take a pinch of the petroleum jelly on your fingers.
  2. Massage your ears gently with this jelly.
  3. Avoid applying it inside the ear canal.
  4. Do this 3 times a day for 5 days.

Itchy Ears inside Treatment

Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide inside the ear canal can be used to get rid of bacteria or fungal infections.

  • Using an ear dropper, pour few drops of the hydrogen peroxide in the infected ear.
  • Do this 2 times a day for 1 week.
  • If the symptoms fail to go way, seek medical advice.

Antibiotic Ointment
For otitis media, dermatitis and fungal infection, antibiotic ointment can be used. For those with chronic medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes or HIV you need to seek medical attention. It is advisable to consult your doctor so that he can prescribe medications that can avoid allergy and other medical complications.
Miscrosuction
This is a painless procedure whereby the ear wax is drained by sucking. The procedure is usually very quick and can only be done by a qualified health professional.
Ear irrigation
This is a medical procedure where an electric pump is pushed to pump water into the ear. The procedure helps to wash the earwax out and reduce blockage that cause itchiness. Ear irrigation also helps to keep the ear canal wet to prevent the itching and irritation.
Aural toilet
This is a thin instrument with a hoop and is used to clean and scrape out the ear wax that is blocking the ear canal and to some extend causing irritation and inflammation.
Antibiotics
When ear itchiness is accompanied by symptoms such as fever and headache, antibiotics can be helpful in getting rid of these symptoms. Antibiotics can also be administered in case of swelling, bleeding or lumps in the ear.
Steroidal topical ointment
A common steroid useful In this case is hydrocortisone. It works effectively against inflammation, swelling and itching caused by skin and body complication.

How to prevent having the problem of ear itchiness

  • Use jewelries that are anti-allergenic
  • When taking a shower prevent excess water from entering your ear.
  • When going for swimming ensure you wear a swimming headband.
  • Regularly clean your ears to prevent the build-up of wax, by using a little olive oil.
  • Be careful with hearing aids and ear plugs. If you have to put the hearing aid in your ears, ensure that your ear canal is dry after showering before putting them back inside your ears.
  • Reduce your exposure to allergens and take antihistamine medications when necessary.

My Ears Itch Deep Inside

When ears itch deep inside and you have tried natural home remedies without success, and that with time the itchiness is continuing to be consistent and persistent, with severe bleeding or excessive discharge, it could be a symptom of a serious anaphylactic reaction which impairs breathing, causes swelling, fainting and vomiting. In such a case you need to visit a professional health doctor for examination.
FURTHER REFERENCES:

  1. https://www.medicinenet.com/chronic-rhinitis/article.htm
  2. https://www.everydayhealth.com/ear-nose-throat/rhinitis.aspx
  3. https://www.healthline.com/symptom/itchy-ear
  4. https://www.livestrong.com/article/146111-remedies-for-inner-ear-itching/
Categories Ear

Lump in Earlobe: Piercing, Sebaceous Cyst, How to Get Rid

Lumps that form in your earlobe are localized area of swelling. Other terms that can be used to describe the various types of lumps include bump, nodule, tumor and cyst. These lumps can be as a result of a number of conditions, including infections, inflammation, tumors or trauma. As per the cause, a lump in earlobe may be single or multiple, soft or firm, painful or painless. They may grow rapidly or may not change in size.
Pimples that form in your ear have common areas where they appear which include your ear canal, ear lobe, and behind your ear. Also, they can be caused by exostoses and osteomas, which are types of tumors that grow in the bones of the ear canal. Ear lumps caused by infection, inflammation or trauma are usually temporary and subside as the underlying condition resolves. Those that persist or continue to grow over time may signal more serious conditions, such as tumors.
You may get a lump around ear that is associated with a head injury may signal bleeding in the brain or another emergency and may have life-threatening complications. Seek immediate medical care if you happen to have such kinds of lumps on your head.

Lump in Earlobe Symptoms

Lump formed on your earlobe may be accompanied by other symptoms, depending on the underlying disease, disorder or condition. There are some problems that can result on lump on the earlobe that can cause issues in other areas of the body.  A lump inside earlobe may be accompanied by other localized symptoms such as:

  • Itching
  • Pus or discharge
  • Redness, warmth or swelling
  • Tenderness or pain

Serious symptoms that might indicate a life-threatening condition

  • Cough
  • Fever and chills
  • Headache
  • Joint stiffness and pain
  • Runny nose
  • Sore throat
  • Sweating
  • Unexplained weight loss

In some cases, the lump on the earlobe may occur with other symptoms, which might indicate a serious or life-threatening condition that should be evaluated immediately in an emergency room.

  • Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
  • Change in mental status or sudden behavior change, such as confusion, delirium, lethargy, hallucinations and delusions
  • Profuse or uncontrollable bleeding

Lump in Earlobe Causes

When you develop a lump in your earlobe it can cause you a lot of discomfort and anxiety to want to know what could have caused its appearance. Some lumps in your earlobe are usually not serious but if your condition case you more trouble make an appointment with your physician to find out what could have caused it since there are many different things that can result to these bumps. Since most of these causes are no severe, for that reason many people do not seek medication.

  1. Acne

Simply, acne is usually a localized skin inflammation that occurs because of increased activities in the oil glands that are located at the base of your hair follicles. These pimple-like bumps can occur in any part of your body but it is mostly observed on your neck, hands, face, etc. that are usually exposed to the atmosphere. Your earlobes are not an exception either as they are usually always exposed.

  1. Piercing

This can be described as the main reason why your earlobe has a lump. A number of people have pierced ears and this can result to the earlobe being injured due to sudden disturbance of the skin when the needle penetrates through it. In this case, apart from the lump you may see redness, accompanied with discomfort from a burning sensation and pain.

  1. Folliculitis

This is the inflammation of the hair follicles on your skin which occurs when an infection resulting from micro-organisms which penetrates the skin after injury. Although this condition commonly occurs on the scalp it can affect your earlobe as well.

  1. Cancer

Though in rare cases, a lump in earlobe can be originated from cancer. Cancer usually forms on any part of the skin and your earlobe skin has no exception either. The condition usually begins in a cell tissue in the earlobe which starts to multiply itself slowly and growing into a full bump. The tumor that forms on your earlobe is usually painless and it keeps increasing in size. In this case, you need to contact your doctor immediately.

  1. Clogged sebaceous gland


This is also referred to as sebaceous cyst which is usually a benign. A cyst is usually filled with oil and dead skin cells and it is painless unless it becomes infected. This type of cyst can develop on the earlobe as well appearing like a lump.

  1. Epidermoid cysts

These are small bumps that develop under your skin and are easily moved around using your fingers. These types of cysts can turn into cancer, therefore if you realize they do not disappear in a week or two you should have it evaluated by your physician to rule out cancer.

  1. Allergic reaction to some metal

One can developed a lump in earlobe immediately after wearing an earring made from the offending metal. This will occur if you are allergic to the metal used to manufacture the earring. Due to your body’s reactive histamines, the lump in your earlobe is usually painful.

  1. Poor Personal Hygiene

Poor personal hygiene is also a major cause of lump in ear i.e. touching the inner part of the ears with hands that are dirty or using dirty cell phones and dirty earplugs.
Additionally, scratching your ears with nails, unwashed hair, and unwashed hair products that are not clean can lead to the development of lumps on earlobe. It is this poor personal hygiene practices that provide bacteria with a good breeding ground, which results to the pimples. It is also possible for dirt to clog the pores on the ears and this will lead to pimples.

  1. Winter and Summer Weather

According to Mayo Clinic, acne prone skin is similar to any other skin, which means that summer weather could lead to pimples. Also, the cold weather experienced during the winter season combined with indoor heating may cause dryness of the skin. When the skin becomes dry, you start getting pimples, and not just on your earlobes, but on other body parts as well.

  1. Occlusive Clothing and Helmets

Wearing clothes and helmets that trap moisture around your ears provide bacteria with ideal ground for breeding. When the bacteria are trapped inside the skin pores, it could lead to a pimple or a lump in earlobe. You should, therefore, avoid wearing occlusive clothing as well as helmets.
Other causes of rash or pimples on earlobe at a glance

  • Wearing woolen hats
  • Use of poor cosmetic products
  • Beach sand
  • Taking medications such as birth control pills
  • Diets that have too much-refined sugars
  • Stress
  • Allergic reactions to medicines, foods, pets, and dander

Lump in Ear Lobe Cancer

As we have stated above, be careful when dealing with lumps on your earlobe that can be cancerous. In numerous studies, it has been revealed that cancerous lumps and bumps are not usually painful. In some conditions it could be some kind of cyst that needs to be drained and treated with simple antibiotics. When draining is involved it could be some kind of infection going on which really needs checking out and could be treated.
If it is a big old infection going on there it would certainly give you a bad feeling. You need to get a diagnosis before you know what causes the lump in earlobe. It is not a matter of ethnicity – you need to get to the doctor and ask what is going on with your ear.
Sometimes when people get a lump that won’t go away; they just conclude it is cancer. It could be infections, or inflammations or all of that kind. However, if the lump keeps on progressing to the worse state you have to be careful with what you are dealing with. Put yourself on the safe side by letting your doctor have a look at it.

Lump in Earlobe near Piercing

Infection in body piercings is commonly caused by the transfer of microorganisms from dirty hands to the piercing site, according to research findings. Other contaminants that may cause infection come from contact with bodily fluids or unsanitary water. Developing a lump in earlobe is one of the major signs that your earlobe is infected. A part from that, your earlobe may also feel warm to the touch.
A lot of people may complain of bumps on their piercings few days or even many years after piercing was done. While proper care usually keeps these from forming, sometimes a piercing gets a bump with the best of care. Identifying the bump and treating it can reduce pain, and help your piercing heal faster.
The reasons behind getting a bump could be always different, from non – sterilized equipment to non-professional aftercare treatment. If you develop a bump at the site of a body piercing, draining it should never be done by yourself.
A lump in earlobe, especially if the site turns red, swollen or painful, or drains pus, could indicate a staphylococcus infection or other bacteria. See your doctor immediately; the doctor might choose to drain the bump and send the fluid for testing to determine the type of bacteria present. In the meantime, your doctor might start you on an oral antibiotic.
Any time you create a wound in the skin like a body piercing, you run the risk of developing an infection. The risk increases if the equipment used to create the opening isn’t scrupulously cleaned and sterilized between uses. Signs of an infection of a pierced ear are tenderness, a yellow discharge, redness, and some swelling.
The most common causes of infection are piercing the ears with unsterile equipment, inserting unsterile posts, or frequently touching the earlobes with dirty hands.

Lumps in Earlobe that come and go

Earlobe infections can cause lumps on your ear that comes and go away. Many types of infections cause the lymph nodes behind and below the ears near the jawbone to enlarge and feel like lumps. Traumatic causes of lumps range from bug bites to severe injuries that can produce localized collection of blood in the tissues.
Also, benign and malignant tumors of the skin, soft tissues, or organs can sometimes feel like lumps and they may appear for some time and disappear. In these cases, either a biopsy or surgical removal of the lump can determine whether cancer is present.
Cysts, which are fluid-filled, sac-like structures that can form in various parts of the body, often feel like a lump in earlobe. Some cysts may be present at birth, while others develop as a result of inflammation, tumors, or wear and tear over time. Sebaceous cysts are benign lumps filled with pus, dead skin cells, and excess oil.

Sebaceous Cyst Earlobe

It is usually normal to develop lumps in and around your earlobe called cysts. They are similar in appearance to pimples, but they are different. Some sebaceous cyst in your earlobe does not need treatment. If the cyst causes pain, or does not disappear, you should seek the help of a medical professional.
How to identify sebaceous cyst on earlobe
A sebaceous cyst is a sack-like lump in earlobe made of dead skin cells. Usually, it is small, smooth bump under the skin, similar to a blemish. It may vary in color from matching your skin pigmentation to red. Usually they are no bigger than the size of a pea. But you should watch them to see if they change in size.
A sebaceous cyst is almost always benign and should cause no problems other than being a minor cosmetic issue or small distraction. However, it can feel uncomfortable if your headphones rub against it.
What causes an earlobe sebaceous cyst?

  1. An epidermoid cyst occurs when epidermis cells that should have been shed get deeper into your skin and multiply. These cells form the walls of the cyst and secrete keratin, which fills up the cyst.
  2. Also, damaged hair follicles or oil glands can cause them. Cysts also often tend to run in families, or can form for no reason. They occur in most people at some point. However, they are generally no cause for concern.

How to Get Rid of Lump in Ear

Often, common lumps in your earlobe will resolve on their own but if they do not or start to become larger and more painful it is time to see your physician. If the lump in earlobe does not resolve on its own your physician can treat it with steroids in order to reduce the inflammation or remove it surgically using a small incision.
There are some lumps in earlobe that be removed with lasers. It is not uncommon for the lump in earlobe to come back in the same location even after having them surgically removed.
A reddened bump doesn’t always mean infection. In some cases, inflammation can develop at the site from irritation from the piercing rather than infection. With inflammation, the redness is usually localized, improves with time, doesn’t spread and doesn’t have a foul smell. Draining an inflamed bump won’t help at all, since it doesn’t contain infected material. Injecting the bump with cortisone often helps reduce inflammation, although you might need more than one treatment, depending on the size of the inflamed area.
No one wants to walk around with a pimple on or inside earlobe, especially given that some of them look very bad. As such, you can always try the following home remedies when dealing with pimple on ear.

  1. Tea Tree Oil

It is beneficial to oil that contains many anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. The properties are vital in helping deal with various health problems such as a cough, toenail fungus, acne, and lump in earlobe. It is also great for dealing with sebaceous cyst, which is one of the causes of pimple on ear.
When treating pimple on earlobe, you will need to apply the tea tree oil directly on to it. The oil will provide a protective layer for the earlobe and will help in fighting against any infection. Alternatively, you can also use diluted tea tree oil by mixing is with water and apply the mixture thrice a day on the affected area.

  1. Aloe Vera


This is an excellent remedy for dealing with pimple on earlobes. It not only contains pain-relieving properties, but it is also able to heal infected pimples. Apply the Aloe Vera gel directly to your pimple on earlobe and you will experience a cool feeling that will relieve the irritation. To remove the impurities, make sure to drink Aloe Vera Juice on a regular basis

  1. Warm Compress

A warm compress is vital for addressing issues such as pimple on earlobe. If you want to do away with the pimple on earlobe, practice the hot compress method at home. The method will help in draining any pus or fluids that are in the lump in earlobe. Make sure that the compress is of medium heat as a hot compress may provide a breeding ground for bacteria.

  1. Honey

Honey combined with yogurt works like a very good wound dresser. When treating pimple on earlobe, just put a wheatgrass in a blender and blend it with some honey in a paste and apply directly to the pimple to stay overnight. In the morning wash it off for better results.

Additional Home Remedies for Pimple on Earlobe

Below are other factors to consider when nursing or taking care of a lump in earlobe at home. It is also important to note that if these pimples won’t go away, seek medical advice for proper diagnosis. It is okay to use home remedies and in most cases the pimples should clear up before you know it. But if they persist seek medical advice.

  • The first thing you need to take to get rid of the pimple on earlobe is to ensure that you maintain strict hygiene and cleanliness levels. Make sure to clean that area each day. Once clean, pat it dry and do not let it stay damp
  • Do not fidget with the pimples at any time as this may lead to further infection
  • Make sure you do not use hair products that are greasy as they can aggravate the acne
  • For the duration of the pimple on earlobe, you will need to change the pillowcases on your bed at least three times a week to ward off any hair oil that may have got to the pillows when sleeping
  • Increase your vitamin A intake by consuming foods that are rich in this vitamin such as carrots, papaya, pumpkin and spinach and those rich in Vitamin C as well such as oranges, mangoes, tomatoes, and peppers.
  • Drink lots of water each day. When you take water, it helps in cleansing your blood stream and in the process eliminates the toxins that have built up in your body, thereby accelerating the skin healing process.
  • To eliminate acne, Zinc is another element that you will need to take in plenty. You should hold necessary consultations with your dermatologist before starting an intake of the supplement. Alongside the zinc, you may also want to step up your intake of cashews, walnuts, as well as oysters. All these are packed with zinc.

Lump in earlobe or Pimple in Ear Canal

You need to be very careful with the pimple in your ear canal. Although its causes are similar to the others, with a big pimple in your canal, there is the likelihood that your hearing could get affected.
Additionally, popping it inside your ear is not recommended as there are delicate parts found in your ear, and they could easily be damaged. You must, therefore, avoid sticking sharp objects into the ears in an attempt to pop the pimple.
Even though popping a pimple is not recommended, many people still prefer using this method at hone to get rid of pimple on earlobe.
More references

  1. Ear lump causes: https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/ear-nose-and-throat/ear-lump–causes
  2. Earlobe cyst: http://www.healthline.com/health/earlobe-cyst#overview1
  3. Lump in earlobe: http://healthool.com/lump-in-earlobe/
  4. Earlobe cancer: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-chat/thread/earlobe-cancer
  5. Piercing infection: http://www.skin-artists.com/ear-piercing-infection.htm
  6. How to get rid of pimples in ear: http://www.stylecraze.com/articles/get-rid-of-pimples-inside-the-ear/

Categories Ear

Itchy Ear Canal: and Throat, Remedy, Outer, Causes, Superstition, Allergies, Treatment

An itching ear canal can be annoying.  Even though your ears are small as compared to your arms or legs, they are loaded with highly sensitive neurological fibers. It is usually the reason why you often have to deal with them when they itch. Some people’s ears are relatively more sensitive, so they may have to deal with chronic itching. However, your itchy ears may also highlight another underlying condition. It is therefore important to understand the causes of itchy ears to determine how to correct this condition.

What Causes Itchy Ear Canal?

If you have an ear canal that is itchy, you will want to scratch it or you can feel irritated at some times. Before that, you should first identify what causes the condition. Some of the causes of this problem may involve the following:
Insufficient ear wax
You may have to deal with itching if your ears if they don’t produce enough earwax. This usually leads to dry ears and it may be noticed by flaking skin dropping out of your ears.

Ear Canal Dermatitis

This is a condition that involves the inflammation of the skin in and around your ear canal, and usually results from an allergic reaction. Most people face this situation when they use a beauty product that contains an ingredient they are allergic to; a reaction to the metals in earrings may also cause itchy ear canal dermatitis.

Ear Infection

An ear infection such as otitis media can cause severe pain and make your ears feel itchy. If you’re a swimmer, you’re more likely to experience this condition because the outer canal of your ear becomes infected, and the infection will causes swelling and redness.

The Use of Hearing Aid

Regular use of hearing aid will make water trapped in the ears. Sometimes, your ears will become allergic to the hearing aid itself – this is usually true with an ill-fitting hearing aid. All these issues will lead to itchy ears.

Psoriasis

Often this is a common skin problem that usually produces a red rash on your skin. Although psoriasis usually occurs on visible parts of your body, it may also appear behind or inside the ears, which can cause itching.

Allergies

If you have asthma, allergic rhinitis, or other allergy issues, you are more likely to develop an ear infection such as otitis externa. It is usually caused by a reaction to a foreign body being exposed to your ear, such as earplugs, ear medication, sweat, or shampoo. Your doctor may have to use an ear wick or a sponge to treat the infection.

Excessive Moisture

If you’re usually exposed to humid environments or swim in polluted water, you are more likely to develop an ear infection. Contaminated water can enter your ear canal and cause an infection. Sometimes, the excessive moisture will wash away earwax, leaving your ears dry and itchy. The itching will prompt scratching that will damage your skin and even infect your external canal as well.

Other Causes

Several other factors may also cause an itchy ear canal. This may include stress, medications, and extreme heat or cold. In rare cases, severe ear itching can be a symptom of a more serious and life-threatening condition, so it is important to set an appointment with your ENT specialist to rule out serious issues such as anaphylaxis.

My Ears Itch Deep Inside

Sometimes the insides of our ears get itchy or an itchy pain in the air—often simply called itchy ear canal, itching ears, or ear itching—and we don’t think much about it.
We might reach for a Q-tip or some other object like a bobby pin or a toothpick to get at the itch and scratch it away. But using anything inside our ears, even a cotton swab, can be dangerous and may cause more damage.
Any break in the skin can lead to bacteria getting in and causing an infection. The most common causes associated with itching in the ear are ear infections (either full-blown or just starting) or a fungus. Allergies can also cause itchy ears on the inside.
Reasons for an itchy ear canal include stress, medications, and extreme heat and cold. An itchy Eustachian tube can also be caused by the same things listed above.

Itchy Ears Meaning

There are superstitions for everything, even itchy ear superstitions. Apparently when you have an itchy outer ear or an itchy earlobe, it means that someone is talking about you. If your left ear is itching, it means someone you love is talking about you or someone in general is saying nice things about you. If your right ear is itching, it means the opposite. Apart from these fun superstitions, an itchy ear is definitely trying to tell you something, and the cause of it could likely be one of the reasons below.
Itchy ears or refers to the uncomfortable tickling, prickling, tingling or irritating sensation on your ears that makes one to want to scratch their ears. The itchiness is often on your outer ear i.e. itchy ear canal, ear lobe, behind your ears and at times on your middle ear.
The itching can be mild or severe, constant, affect one ear or both ears. Sometimes, you can have extremely or really itch ears that you will be tempted to stick objects into your ears to easy the itching. This is dangerous as it can cause trauma to your ear canal.

Itchy Ear Canal Causes

Itchy ear canal causes
Itchy and swollen ear canal

Do you have other symptoms that might occur with ear itching? Needless to say, it is important to know what is causing the itching. The most common and obvious cause of itchy ear canals is problems with wax. Both too much wax and not enough wax in the ear can cause the problem. You may experience ear fullness as well as irritation from having too much wax in the affected ear.
On the other hand, not producing enough ear wax can cause your ear canals dry and irritated. Itching that is sudden, severe, or unusual should be evaluated for a serious food allergy that can come on rapidly, with a strong need to scratch. Sudden itching can also be a sign of anaphylaxis that is considered a medical emergency. Itching can also be a symptom of ear infection, such as swimmer’s ear, which can occur in people who frequently expose their ears to water to allow fungus growth.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or immediately. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. Medical professionals who provide responses to health-related questions are intended third party beneficiaries with certain rights under Zocdoc’s Terms of Service.

Itchy Inner Ear and Throat

Sore, itchy throat is one of the most common throat problems. If your throat itches, it is most likely that you will also have itching inside ear. The reason is that throat, ear and nasal passages are all connected from the inside. Therefore, a problem with any one of these organs also affects the functioning of the others. There are several causes for itchy inner ear and throat. In this article, you will also find some effective remedies to treat the same.
Causes inner itchy ear canal
Allergies
Allergies are the prime cause of itchy throat and ears. There are several nerves which end in the throat. These nerves are protected under the mucus lining inside the throat. The lining of the throat is coated with mucus for smooth passage of food and other materials. Sometimes, the ends of the nerves get exposed due to dried mucus lining. As a result, allergens such as pollutants, certain foods irritate the nerve ends and cause itchy throat. The passage from throat to ears also itches due to same reason. Dairy products, peanuts are some common culprits for food allergies.
Dehydration
Dryness of the throat is mainly what causes itchy throat. Dehydration is common during fever or infections, which leads to drying up of mucus lining in the throat. As a result, you experience itching inside the throat. Dehydration also occurs as a side effect of certain medications or a result of excessive smoking, tobacco chewing etc. Besides, certain diseases such as AIDS, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes also cause dryness of mouth and throat.
Infections
other viral and bacterial functions lead to sore throat, which also itches at times. Bacteria called streptococcus is responsible for sore, strep throat. Viral infections usually manifest in the form of common cold and flu. Bacterial throat infections also contribute to the inflammation of the tonsils, larynx and pharynx.

Itchy Ears Home Remedy

For mild-to-moderate ear infections, especially those where pain is not a serious issue, you might want to try a home remedy before resorting to prescription drugs.
Rubbing alcohol and white vinegar
One common method involves mixing one part rubbing alcohol with one part white vinegar. Use a pipette, dipper, or teaspoon and let the solution run into your ear by tilting your head to the side. Keep it inside for a few seconds before letting it drain back out onto a paper towel.
The alcohol and acetic acid in the vinegar will go to work on the infection and also help to clean your ear. Don’t overuse this method because it can dry out the ear which will lead to more itching. Simply apply it once or twice a day until the infection has cleared.
Olive oil, coconut oil and garlic oil

Olive oil and coconut oil are also great natural alternatives to ear drops. Olive oil can even be infused with garlic for a natural antibiotic and anti-fungal solution.
Garlic infused oil is a popular choice in treating itchy and/or infected ears. Garlic is a natural antibiotic that also has antifungal properties. If you don’t want the hassle of making it yourself, you can pick up a bottle of Herb.

How to Relieve Itchy Ear Canal

You can relieve the itchy ear canal with some simple and effective remedies. After identifying the cause, you can try some proper remedies from the below options.

Use Warm Oil

Instead of inserting anything in your ear to relieve itching, you will be better off using a few drops of warm oil. You can make homemade drops by using olive oil, mineral oil, or vegetable oil. You can warm the oil simply by placing the jar into a warm glass of water for half an hour or less. Test those drops first on the inside of your wrist to ensure the oil is not too hot to burn your skin.

Try the Mixture of Alcohol and Water

You can relieve your itchy ear canal by squirting water mixed with alcohol. You may use an ear syringe or bulb syringe for this purpose. It is a good remedy because it helps flush out debris and eliminate any bugs in your ears. Be sure to drain the water after a few minutes – you can use the syringe to withdraw the fluid.

Remove Wax

Although wax is for protection, too much wax may cause itching and pain as well. Don’t insert anything in your ears to clear wax build-up. Simply lie on your side with your affected ear facing the roof. Now place hot washcloth or a warm water bottle over the ear. The heat will do the trick here and soften the wax. You may use cotton tipped swab to clear the softened wax.

Avoid Moisture

You need to keep your ears dry to alleviate itching. If you have to swim, you may consider wearing a swim cap. Use the same cap when taking showers. Using earplugs that usually have a coating of petroleum jelly is another good way of keeping your ears dry. You can sometimes use your hair dryer at a low temperature setting to keep your ears dry.

Use Peroxide to Remove Wax

You can consider using a peroxide rinse to loosen the earwax and eliminate itching. Simply pour some peroxide into the ear and let it stay there for a while. Now tilt your head to the other side to drain the solution.

More Tips to Soothe Itchy Ear Canal

  • Always try to get rid of any debris by swabbing with cotton wool.
  • Remove anything that causes an allergic reaction when touching your ear, such as earrings, earplugs, etc.
  • Take painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol to relieve your ear pain. Avoid ibuprofen if you have stomach or asthma problems. Ask your doctor if you’re not sure about anything.
  • Don’t go swimming until your ear infection has cleared completely.

Prevention

Letting a couple drops of olive oil into your ears (and then back out onto a paper towel) may help prevent itchy ears in the future.
Take these precautions to lower the risk of developing an itchy canal again in future:
Prevent excess liquid from entering. When showering or taking a bath, gently place a small amount of clean cotton ball over the entrance to your ears to prevent excessive water and bathing products such as bubble bath from getting inside. Be careful not to push the cotton too deeply and avoid it completely if you find that it irritates your skin.
Purchase a swimming headband. If you go swimming, think about buying a swimming headband to keep your ears dry and free from the threat of fungus and bacteria. If you do get water inside your ear, try to drain it out by tilting your head to the side. As a last resort, you can use a hairdryer, providing you place it on the lowest setting and hold it about 50cm away from your ear. Do not use a hairdryer if the skin in your ear is broken or sore.
Use olive oil in your ears. Clean your ears and prevent wax build up by using a little olive oil. Simply tip a small amount of olive oil onto a spoon, tilt your head to one side and let the oil run into your ear. Let the oil settle in your ear for a few minutes then tilt your head back up and let the excess oil drain out onto a paper towel. Repeat the process with the other ear and do this on a regular basis – maybe two or three nights every week before going to bed. The oil will also help to moisturize your ear canals and sooth the skin.
Drain earwax. If you find that excess wax builds up inside your ears and the olive oil trick doesn’t work, visit your doctor regularly so he can drain the wax. You can also buy wax-softening ear drops from your drugstore or chemist, but use these sparingly.
Protect your ears in the shower or bath. This especially applies to products you use while showering or bathing. Try to you avoid getting shampoo, hairspray, bubble bath, shower gel, or other chemical irritants into your ears.
Be gentle with your ears. Always remember that the skin inside your ears is delicate and easily irritated. Never put anything hard inside your ears that might damage or antagonize the skin.
Be careful with hearing aids and ear plugs. If you wear a hearing aid, try to wait until your ear canal is dry after showering before you put the aid back inside your ear. The same applies to ear plugs of any kind—including the ones you use to listen to music. If possible, avoid wearing hearing aids altogether until an itch or infection has completely cleared up.
Controlling your allergies. If you suffer from dust, pollen or other allergies reduce your exposure to allergens and take antihistamine medication when necessary.

Itchy Ears Treatment

Although an outer ear infection or itchy ear canal will sometimes clear up by itself, it is a problem that can often be stubborn and persistent. The best approach is to think about how you are going to treat it and also how you will prevent it from happening again.
Treatment falls into two stages:

  • Stopping the itch, and
  • Clearing up the infection or skin condition.

Firstly, it is recommended that you consult your doctor so that she can clean your ear if necessary and prescribe ear drops. Your doctor might also take a swab of your ear canal to determine whether fungus is present. Results from a swab usually take a few days to come back.

  • Ear drops will contain a minimum of two active ingredients: an ingredient such as hydrocortisone that will quickly subdue the itching and any resultant swelling, and An antibiotic to kill the bacteria which causes the infection.
  • If you are diagnosed with having a fungal infection, your doctor might also prescribe anti-fungal drops or ointment as well.
  • Whilst using ear drops prescribed by your doctor, you can start to take preventative measures to ensure that the itch and/or infection do not return. Just because the ear drops have cleared up the problem, don’t assume that it is incapable of coming back. Preventative action is an on-going process and the more vigilant you are the greater chance you have of keeping your ear canal itch-free.

Note: It also recommended that you don’t become overly reliant on pharmaceutical ear drops in the long-term. Although they can work wonders at fighting the infection and stopping your ear canal from irritating you, long-term use should be avoided because they can be a little harsh for the sensitive skin in the ear. Once the itch has gone and your treatment has finished, seek out natural alternatives to prescription ear drops, such as olive oil.
More references

  1. Itchy ear canal: http://www.md-health.com/Itchy-Ear-Canal.html
  2. Itchy ear canal causes and treatments: http://www.doctorshealthpress.com/general-health-articles/itchy-ear-canal-causes-treatments
  3. Why would my ears feel itchy on the inside: https://www.zocdoc.com/answers/9851/why-would-my-ears-feel-itchy-on-the-inside
  4. Otitis externa – causes: http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Otitis-externa/Pages/Causes.aspx
Categories Ear

Crease in Earlobe Causes: Vertical, Can it be Reversed, in one Ear, Get Rid, Pictures

Earlobe creases are lines in the surface of earlobe of a child or young adult. The surface is otherwise smooth. Franks’ sign is a diagonal ear lobe crease (ELC) extending diagonally from the tragus across the lobuleto the rear edge of the auricle. The sign is named after Dr. Peter J Frank

Crease in Earlobe Meaning

It has been hypothesised that Franks’ sign is indicative of cardiovascular disease and/or diabetes. Some studies have described Franks’ sign as a marker of cardiovascular disease but not linked to the severity of the condition.
In contrast, other studies have rebutted any association between Frank’s sign and coronary artery disease in diabetic. There have also been reported cases of Franks’ sign assisting in the diagnosis of cerebral infarctions.
However, researchers do agree that these crease in earlobe have no predictive value in Native American Indian and Asian patients.
Some studies have focused upon bilateral earlobe creases

Severity of earlobe creases

  • Grade 3 –a crease that covers the whole of the earlobe
  • Grade 2a – Creased more than halfway across the earlobe
  • Grade 2b – A superficial crease across the earlobe
  • Grade 1 – A small amount of wrinkling on the earlobe

Considerations
The earlobes of children and young adults are normally smooth. Creases are sometimes linked with conditions that are passed down through families. Other genetic factors, such as race and earlobe shape, may also determine who develops earlobe creasing and when it occurs.
Note: It is not uncommon to have one small abnormality in facial features, such as an earlobe crease. Most often this does not indicate a serious medical condition.
Some studies have found that people with crease in earlobe have a greater risk for heart attack than others. More recent research suggests that earlobe creases are more common in older people, and that age, not the presence of creases, accounts for the increased heart attack risk.
Other genetic factors such as race and earlobe shape may also determine who develops earlobe creasing and whether it occurs in childhood or adulthood.
You may be at a higher risk of getting heart disease if you’re overweight or you smoke. But what could a diagonal crease in your earlobe tell you?
As the normal earlobe is smooth, an earlobe with a crease has a fold, straight line, or wrinkle that appears to cut the earlobe in half. An open letter that was published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1973 reported that a diagonal earlobe crease (ELC) was a potential indicator of coronary artery disease. This crease was later called “Frank’s sign,” after the letter writer, Dr. Sanders T. Frank.

How a Crease on Earlobe Indicate Heart Disease

For scientists, they are not sure how these two might be connected, but there are some theories. Degeneration of the elastic tissue around the small blood vessels that carry blood to the earlobes produces the earlobe crease.
This is the same type of change in blood vessels associated with cardiac disease. In other words, visible changes that show up in tiny blood vessels of the ear could indicate similar changes in those blood vessels that can’t be seen around the heart.
For rare conditions like Beckwith-Weidman syndrome, an overgrowth disorder, in children or genetic factors such as race and earlobe shape also can cause a crease.

What Causes Earlobe Creases?

Several scientists have looked at the potential connection between earlobe creases and cardiac arrest disease. Some studies have shown a correlation, while others have not. A study of 340 patients published in 1982 found a crease in earlobe to be a sign associated with aging and CAD.
The crease suggested the presence of a more severe form of heart disease in people who were showing symptoms. The earlobe crease, the researcher’s states that, may identify a subset of patients prone to early aging and to the early development of coronary artery disease, whose prognosis might be improved by early preventative measures.
Another study published in 1989 studied the bodies of 300 patients who had died from various causes. In this study, the diagonal creases were associated with cardiovascular causes of death. The researchers wrote, “We found a strong association between earlobe creases and a cardiovascular cause of death in men and women after age, height, and diabetes had been controlled for.”

Crease in Earlobe Causes

Whatever the size, shape, thickness, or colour, most people have smooth earlobes. But have you ever met someone that has a crease in their earlobe—a line that seems to split it in two? That’s known as “Frank’s Sign”. Surprisingly, it’s named after the man who first recognized it as something other than a simple skin wrinkle.
Creases on earlobes can have various causes, just like most other symptoms.  Finding the true cause means ruling out or confirming each possibility – in other words, diagnosis.

Causes of crease in earlobe

In children, earlobe creases are sometimes linked with rare disorders. One of these is commonly known as Weidman syndrome.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
In most cases, the health care provider will notice earlobe creases during a regular check-up. Talk to your provider if you are concerned that your child’s earlobe creases may be linked to an inherited disorder.
Earlobe crease. This is a tricky trait. You might have an earlobe crease if the trait is passed down genetically through your family. As far as what else may cause this, that’s up for debate. One theory suggests that it could be due to impaired circulation leading to a collapsed blood vessel near the earlobe. Another theory, which comes from a dermatologist, is that it may develop from a combination of aging and sleeping on one particular side of your body. But the cause is hard to pin down and there aren’t any current treatments for it.

Ear crease and heart disease

Many studies have since been performed and the great majority have supported Frank’s research. It hasn’t been definitively determined why heart disease may manifest in a fold in the earlobe.
Theories include:

  • Lack of blood flow to the ears will cause the lobe to wrinkle. If the blood can’t get through to the ears, there’s a blockage somewhere.
  • Elastin and collagen fibres weaken in the ears, indicating a similar weakening of coronary arteries.
  • The coronary arteries end at the ears; vascular disease there means vascular disease further up the line.

Other Theories
A Japanese study found that diagonal earlobe crease may be caused by shortened cell telomeres associated with metabolic syndrome. It concluded that it might be a useful indirect marker of high-risk patients.
Telomeres are areas at the end of each strand of DNA that protect cells from damage. The longer the telomere, the better.
A noticeable symptom of crease in earlobe
Interestingly, a noticeable crease in the earlobe is often an indicator of cardiovascular disease in the absence of any other symptoms.
A study published in 2014 tells of a man with hypertension who went to an outpatient clinic. The physician saw Frank’s sign on both earlobes and suggested further testing, although the man displayed no symptoms of heart problems. After testing, it was found that the left main coronary artery was 80% blocked and the right was 90% blocked. “The patient underwent 3-vessel coronary artery bypass graft surgery and has since done well.”
Other Factors
Oddly, prevalence of DELC may be partly cultural/regional.
Another Japanese study found an unarguably strong correlation between ear crease and heart disease. However, the prevalence among the 1000 people involved in the study was less than expected.
It is concluded that, the prevalence of ear crease in Japanese adults is very low compared with the results of previous studies in Europe and America; the prevalence of crease in earlobe tends to increase with advancing age but is unrelated to other risk factors for coronary heart disease; a statistically significant association between earlobe crease and coronary heart disease is seen from multivariate analysis using both clinical and angiographic criteria in the diagnosis of the disease.
Can Ear Lobes Give Other Signs?
DELC may be a clear tell-tale sign of heart disease, but not when mixed with other conditions. One study aimed to discover if DELC would be a credible identifier of vascular disease and retinopathy in diabetic, it was not
In response, a grading system has been developed for DELC that indicates the severity of current cardiovascular risk:

  • Unilateral incomplete – least severe
  • Unilateral complete – moderate
  • Bilateral complete – most severe

Like a canary in a coal mine, should you notice a permanent crease in someone’s ear, don’t ignore it. Early intervention in the case of heart disease can be a life saver.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
This finding is usually discovered on a well-child examination.
If you notice that your child has earlobe creases and are concerned that they may be linked with an inherited disorder, see your paediatrician.

Can Earlobe Creases be reversed

Ear creases aren’t a sign of a magnesium deficiency. Diagonal earlobe creases can be an indicator for coronary artery disease, however, and low magnesium can contribute to heart disease. Earlobe can be reversed if they are not inborn. Those who acquire these genes from their families it may be hard to reverse this condition. Discuss any medical concerns and diet or supplement changes with your health care provider.
Ear Creases and Heart Disease
Diagonal earlobe creases may be an indicator of coronary artery disease in some patients. A study conducted by Iranian researchers and published in a 2014 issue of “Heart India” found that over half of the heart disease patients who participated in the study had diagonal earlobe creases.
Magnesium Deficiency and Heart Disease
Low magnesium levels may contribute to heart disease. A 2013 review of heart disease research titled “The Magnesium Hypothesis of Cardiovascular Disease” led by Andrea Rosanoff, director of research and science information outreach for the Centre for Magnesium Education and Research in Pahoa, Hawaii, found that magnesium deficiencies contributed more to heart disease than cholesterol and saturated fat.
The recommended dietary allowance for magnesium is 310 to 320 milligrams per day for women and 400 to 420 milligrams daily for men. Food sources of magnesium include whole grains such as wheat bran, oat bran and brown rice; greens such as spinach and Swiss chard; nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts; lima beans, milk and bananas.

Vertical Earlobe Crease

Could that small vertical mark on your ear have something to do with heart disease? Here is a simple test that could protect you from serious damage to your health. In 1973, a doctor named Sanders T. Frank conducted a number of studies to determine whether an earlobe crease, known as “Frank’s sign”, could be an indicator of coronary artery disease.
He found that patients who had creases running at an angle from the bottom of their ear opening to the edge of their ear lobe were at higher risk for heart disease. But before you start worrying, here are some basic statistics and background on the test. Since Dr. Frank’s studies were published, more scientists have looked into the correlation between the earlobe crease and heart disease.
Researchers found that the earlobe crease “may identify a subset of patients prone to early aging and to the early development of coronary artery disease, whose prognosis might be improved by early preventative measures.” Others like Dr. Sarah Samaan clarify that, “Heart disease doesn’t cause earlobe creases, nor do the creases cause heart disease, but they seem to be a marker for an unhealthy lifestyle.”
Biologically, ear creases result when the elastic tissue around the small blood vessels in the ear begins to degenerate. This is the same type of change that occurs in the blood vessels when one has coronary artery disease. Therefore, scientists concluded that the visible change in the earlobe could be an indication of more serious changes occurring in the blood vessels around the heart.
To provide you with some numbers, a more recent study in 2006 found the predictive value of the ear crease to be about 80 percent in individuals 40 years and younger. That said, it appears that ear creases can predict certain aging diseases like heart disease and possibly even diabetes, but there are still some scientists that are unconvinced.
One study conducted in 1980 found that there was no significant relationship between earlobe creases and coronary artery disease in American Indians, suggesting that “Frank’s sign” may not have the same level of indication in other ethnic groups. Another study on Japanese Americans also found no correlation between earlobe creases and heart disease.
Yet other scientists propose that because the studies are usually conducted on patients over the age of 50, the results may be biased as individuals naturally have a higher risk for these diseases as they age. It could be that earlobe creases are simply a sign of the natural aging process.

Earlobe Crease in one Ear

Despite these doubts, most scientists and doctors agree that the appearance of an ear crease in one ear at the age of 50 and below could be a good indication that the body is not as healthy as it should be. For this reason, if you have an earlobe crease, or know someone with one, it is important to consult a doctor who can test your blood and determine if this odd indicator holds any truth. And remember, heart disease can be treated and even stopped in its tracks, and once it has disappeared, so too will the earlobe crease!
The ear lobe crease (ELC) has been defined as a deep wrinkle that extends backwards from the tragus to the auricle. It has been proposed that ELC is a predictor of coronary artery disease (CAD). In this review, we consider the possible association between ELC and CAD. Our aim is to systematically address all the relevant evidence in this field. There are many studies that support an association between ELC and CAD. However, other studies did not find such an association. A recent meta-analysis supports the hypothesis that ELC could be a marker of CAD. However, several limitations raise doubts as to whether we should accept this link.
Keywords: ear lobe crease, coronary artery disease, Frank’s sign
Several algorithms have been used to predict cardiovascular events without the use of invasive methods. These include the Framingham, Prospective Cardiovascular Munster and Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation engines that predict risk in populations without CVD as well as the Diamond Forrester algorithm which predicts the probability of having significant cardiovascular in symptomatic patients. In a recent study, the Framingham risk score seems to outmatch the other three risk scores in 1,296 stable chest pain patients, who underwent cardiac computed tomographic angiography to assess cardiovascular. However, the algorithms often overestimate the prevalence of cardiovascular.
Coronary angiography and CCTA are used to diagnose or rule out CAD. However, these invasive techniques have limitations since they involve exposure to radiation and the administration of contrast agents. Contrast-induced nephropathy is associated with prolonged hospitalization as well as increased cardiovascular morbidity, renal morbidity and all-cause mortality.
There is a need for additional markers which might identify individuals at high risk of CAD. The ear lobe crease. a simple clinical sign first described by Frank in 1973, could be a potential predictor of CAD. Since then, numerous studies have evaluated the potential link between ELC and risk of CAD.
In this review, we describe the possible association between ELC and CAD. Our aim is to systematically address all the relevant evidence in this field

How to Get Rid of Crease in Ear Lobe

The best crease on ear lobe remedies, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, are those that focus on preventing wrinkles in the first place. So regardless what sort of wrinkle-removal remedy you choose, take the following steps as well: try to avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most direct, always use sunscreen with an SFP of at least 30, wear a hat and lighten up on soap use while increasing the amount of rinsing you do.
Soap residue left on the face can contribute to drying and wrinkled looking skin. Consider adding olive oil to your diet by regularly eating salad greens dressed with olive oil and lemon since olive oil offers skin benefits to those who consume it as well as those who apply it topically, GrannyMed.com suggests.
Olive Oil
Step 1
Boil 6-8 cups of water. Pour the hot water into a large bowl. Bend over near the bowl and drape a towel over your head to create a steam tent. Wait five to 15 minutes as you allow your face to steam.
Step 2
Massage a small amount of olive oil onto damp facial skin. Apply the oil using long sweeping movements from the chin up onto the rest of the face.
Step 3
Work the oil in gently but firmly, taking care to avoid your eyes. Move your fingertips in a circular motion on the skin of your forehead, temples, and down the sides of your face and back up again.
Step 4
Place one finger on the skin on each side of your nose. Move your fingers in circles in that spot and then move outward about half an inch and repeat the circular motion. Continue moving outward and repeating this motion until you reach your ear lobes.
Cucumber
Step 1
Grate one large cucumber. Put the shredded cucumber in a strainer and set it over a bowl to drain.
Step 2
Allow the cucumber juice to drip into the bowl, pressing with your fingers to remove more of the liquid.
Step 3
Use a cotton ball to swab your face with the cucumber juice. Let it sit on your face for at least 30 minutes and then rinse well.
Step 4
Repeat this procedure daily. Within a few days you should be able to see results, according to the Home Remedies Guide.
Egg Whites
Step 1
Separate one egg and beat the white until frothy.
Step 2
Apply the foamy egg white to your face using your fingers. Leave the egg white on for at least 30 minutes or overnight–if you can sleep on your back.
Step 3
Rinse your face with cool water to reveal smooth, soft, tightened skin.
More references

  1. Frank’s sign: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank’s_sign
  2. How to remove earlobe creases with home remedies: http://www.livestrong.com/article/164473-how-to-remove-wrinkles-with-home-remedies/
  3. Heart- head connection: https://dailyhealthpost.com/ear-crease-heart-disease/

Pain Behind Ear Causes: and Down Neck, Base of Skull, Bone, Earlobe, Throbbing, Stabbing, Get Rid

Truth that the ears are so close to the brain makes any kind of discomfort or sharp pain behind ear quite worrisome. That sharp pain from ears could a reason of things and you need to get it checked to understand which kind of pain it is. For instant, if the problem is associated with fever, then it could be an ear infection which needs to be immediately treated in order to prevent the infection from getting worse.

Pain behind Ear Meaning

The nerves that supply the area behind the ear are complicated and involves 5th (auriculotemporal), 7th (facial), 9th (glossopharyngeal) and 10th (vagus) cranial nerves. The area behind the ear is mostly from the C2 and C3 nerves, so diseases of the upper part of neck and spinal cord can produce symptoms here.
In patients who attend me, pain referred from the cervical spine is by far the most common cause. For instant, pain in the ear can come from almost anywhere in the head or neck. The 10th cranial nerve supplies the back (posterior) half of the external ear canal – the bit that is open to the outside.
Pain behind ear that is neurological in origin, is often intermittent and shooting – called neuralgic pain. If a nerve has been more permanently damaged, neuropathic pain can be burning or cold and often has a creepy or itchy quality to it.

Pain behind Ear Causes

The best thing to do in case you have a pain behind ear is to diagnose and treat the condition in order to ensure it doesn’t progress to something more severe and dangerous. Following is a list of some common causes and respective treatments of pain behind ears:
Otitis Media
This virus or bacteria ear infection that affects the air-filled space behind the eardrum containing the tiny vibrating bones. This condition is more common in children and can lead to sharp pain behind ear due to the accumulation of fluids and inflammation in the middle ear.
Treatment: The condition gets resolved on its own. However, the treatment for otitis media involves monitoring the condition to ensure it doesn’t get worse and to manage pain if it gets unbearable. The doctor might prescribe antibiotics for severe cases as leaving it untreated could cause complications.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
These problems are another cause of sharp pain that emanates behind the ear. The temporomandibular joint is the joint located at the jaw which connects the temporal bone to the lower jawbone. These disorders are caused by jaw injury, whiplash injury or bruise.
Treatment
In some cases, the symptoms of this condition may disappear without treatment. But if your symptoms persist, your doctor may recommend some medications such as pain relievers, tricyclic antidepressants or muscle relaxants and therapies or surgery to repair or replace the joint.
Ceruminosis
The condition where there is excessive build-up of earwax in the ear canal is referred to as ceruminosis. It can cause shooting pain behind ear, itching in the ear and muffled hearing. It is caused by the excessive production of ear wax in your ears by the glands. Wax can also accumulate in the ear causing ceruminosis if the ear canal is too narrow.
There are also some cases where you might cause the condition by pushing ear wax deeper into the ear when using ear buds.
Treatment
The treatment mainly involve the removal of ear wax. A wax softening agent and special instruments such as cerumen spoon, suction device or forceps can be used to remove the ear wax. The removal should be done only by a doctor or a health care provider.
Blocked Eustachian Tube
That shooting pain behind your ear in the neck could be as a result of a blocked Eustachian tube. The Eustachian tube can block due to flu, a cold, allergies, sinus infection or changes in pressure when flying or climbing a mountain. Sudden changes in altitude can cause ear barotrauma which has the same effect as a blocked Eustachian tube.
Treatment
This condition often gets better on its own.  A simple exercise can help to open the blocked tubes: close your mouth and hold your nose with hands, then gently blow your nose. Chewing gum and yawning also help.
Mastoiditis

Mastoid bone, located behind the ear, is made up of air spaces functioning as drainage for the middle ear. Mastoiditis occurs when a bacterial infection affecting the mastoid bone or the middle ear, or when a skin cyst at the centre of the ear blocks drainage. Symptoms associated with Mastoiditis include swollen ear lobe, lethargy, irritability, fever, redness or tenderness behind ear, bulging of the ear and drainage.
Treatment
The doctor will prescribe antibiotics and eardrops, and will schedule ear clean-up regularly. For severe cases, a surgical procedure may be required.
Swimmer’s Ear
As the name suggests, this problem is mostly caused by the remaining water in the ears after taking a swim. It affects the outer canal of the ear that connects the outside of the head and the eardrum. This condition can also be caused by damaging of the thin-layered skin lining the ear canal. The lining can be damaged by putting fingers or other objects like cotton swabs in the ear.
Treatment 
Sharp pain caused by this condition is treated with eardrops and OTC pain relievers, such as naproxen and ibuprofen, may be recommended. Immediate medical help is needed in order to prevent deterioration.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are small glands located at the back of the ears, groin area and armpits. They usually swell due to viruses, inflammation, infection or even cancer.
Treatment: If the swelling is caused by infections, doctor will prescribe antibiotics. But a proper diagnosis is required to find the underlying cause of the swelling in order to eliminate the chances of any serious conditions. In any cases lymph nodes heal on their own as the underlying sickness go away
Oral Problem
Sharp pain behind ear cam as well be caused by a tooth infection or a tooth abscess as they cause the lymphatic glands to swell up.
Treatment: In order to treat the earache you will first need to treat the toothache. You can use medication to relieve pain for the time being, but you will need to visit a dentist as soon as possible to get the tooth checked out. Mouth rinses with warm salt-water are also helpful in temporarily relieving the symptoms.
Headache
Because the ear is located so close to the brain, it is quite common for the pain from the head to seep its way to the ears, but the causes are not always the same. Following are some common causes of headaches that are also associated with pain behind ear:

  • Ice-Pick Headache: This stabbing pain, although associated with the eyes, can also occur behind the ear too and only last for a very short time. There is also a variant of the pain, referred to as the epicrania fugax that only lasts for a split second and takes a zigzag pattern through the head.
  • Hemicranias Continua: This is a one-sided headache that can affect its counterpart ear and is often relieved with the help of strong-anti-inflammatory drugs like Indomethacin. It is a chronic pain that usually occurs on a regular basis. In most cases, no underlying cause is identified.
  • Cold-stimulus Headache, also known as ice-cream headache
  • Cervicogenic Headache
  • Primary Yawning Headache
  • Headache After Acoustic Neuroma Surgery
  • Nummular Headache
  • Sudden Unilateral Neuralgiform headache with Conjunctival injection

Bell’s palsy
This is paralysis of the facial nerve associated with herpes virus reactivation. Pain behind ear is typical and can precede paralysis by a day or so. Sometimes the pain is very prominent and the facial weakness is mild. Facial paralysis and severe ear pain usually means that there is Herpes Zoster of the geniculate ganglion, called Ramsay-Hunt syndrome. There is a shingles rash in the ear canal.
Treatment: Antivirals and steroids can be given for Bell’s palsy and Ramsay-Hunt Syndrome. There are a couple of cases reported of pain behind the ear at the time of the menstrual period in women with previous Bell’s palsy.
Greater Auricular Neuralgia
This term has been used to describe pain in the territory of the greater auricular nerve, that is, pain behind the ear and below the ear. However, this territory matches the C2 territory and distinguishing this from ordinary cervicogenic headache can be difficult.
Treatment; this can be carried out by use of standard neuropathic pain preparations like Gabapentin.
Carotid Artery Dissection
Pain from the Carotid artery (one of the main arteries in the neck) can result to pain behind the ear over the mastoid bone. One series of 21 cases found that 3 people had mostly ear pains as a cause of their symptoms. Usually the pain of carotid artery dissection is a sudden onset pain, and can follow neck trauma.
Pain during Carotid Artery Angioplasty
One series identified ear pain in 3 out of 49 people undergoing an angioplasty procedure to the carotid artery.
Angina or Heart Attack
There are cases of pain behind ear as the only symptom of heart disease.  However, this pain is usually located in front of the ear, not behind the ear.  Heart disease presenting as ear pain is sometimes called ‘Cardiac Otalgia’.
Conclusion
As the most common cause of pain behind the ear is a neck-related problem, you should consider looking at what you can do to sort out your pain. Pain in or around the ear can be difficult to diagnose, as the nerve supply of the ear is complicated.

Pain behind Ear and Down Neck

A number of conditions can cause pain behind the ear and down the neck. According researchers, neck pain can travel to other parts of the body, such as the shoulder, arm and head. In some cases, pain in various head structures can send pain to the neck. Pain behind the ear is often associated with neck pain, as the tendons of many neck muscles insert into the mastoid process, a prominent bony bump just behind the ear.

Common causes of pain behind ear and down neck

Cervicogenic Headache
A cervicogenic headache or cervical headache, can cause pain behind the ear and down the neck. Cervicogenic headaches are caused by dysfunction in the muscles, joints, nerves or fascia in and around the cervical spine or neck, especially the upper cervical spine. Pain radiates from the neck and the back of the skull toward the front of the skull, causing a dull, aching sensation throughout the head, including behind the ears.
Possible causes of cervicogenic headache include:

  • Nerve compression between the vertebrae or spinal bones
  • Excessive tenderness in the neck tissues due to trigger points–hyper-irritable nodules or knots within a tight band of muscle
  • Reduced neck range of motion or a stiff neck.

Most cervicogenic headaches respond well to conservative care methods, such as chiropractic manipulation, massage therapy, acupuncture and postural retraining exercises.
Mastoiditis conditions
Mastoiditis can cause pain behind ear and down the neck as well. MedlinePlus states that Mastoiditis is an infection of the mastoid bone of the skull, which is located directly behind the pinna or the outside portion of the ear. The most common cause of Mastoiditis is a middle ear infection, also known as acute otitis media.
The infection can spread from the ear to the mastoid bone, causing infected materials to accumulate within the mastoid air cells like structures within the mastoid bone. Infection of the mastoid air cells can cause destruction and degeneration of the bony tissue that composes this part of the skull.
Mastoiditis affects children more than adults. Common signs and symptoms associated with Mastoiditis include:

  • Head and neck discomfort,
  • pain and swelling behind the ear,
  • ear drainage,
  • fever, headache,
  • Hearing loss and redness over the affected area.

Whiplash
This condition can cause pain behind the ear and down the neck too. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, whiplash is a collection of symptoms that occur following a rapid flexion and extension injury of the neck. The most common cause of whiplash is a rear-end motor vehicle accident.
Whiplash symptoms range from mild to severe. Moderate or severe cases usually involve extensive soft tissue damage to various neck structures, such as muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerve roots–spinal cord offshoots.
Common signs and symptoms associated with whiplash include:

  • neck pain and stiffness,
  • pain behind ears,
  • neck muscle strains, neck ligament sprains,
  • headache, dizziness, shoulder pain, back pain, memory loss, an inability to concentrate, irritability, fatigue, sleeping problems and depression.

The NINDS states that, although most people who suffer a whiplash injury recover within three months, some people may experience residual symptoms that last much longer.

Pain behind Base of Skull

Occipital neuralgia is a condition in which the nerves that run from the top of the spinal cord up through the scalp, called the occipital nerves, are inflamed or injured. You might feel pain in the back of your head or the base of your skull if you have this problem.
Most people can confuse this condition with a migraine or other types of headaches, because the symptoms can be similar. But treatments for those conditions are very different, so it’s important to see your doctor to get the right diagnosis.
Symptoms
These can range from intense pain that feels like a sharp, jabbing, electric shock in the back of the head and neck. Other symptoms include:

  • Aching, burning, and throbbing pain that typically starts at the base of the head and goes to the scalp
  • Pain on one or both sides of the head
  • Pain behind the eye
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Tender scalp
  • Pain when you move your neckBottom of Form

Pain on Bone behind Ear

Mastoiditis usually is a bacterial infection of the mastoid bone. The mastoid bone, which sits behind the ear, consists of air spaces that help drain the middle ear. When the mastoid cells become infected or inflamed, often as a result of an unresolved middle ear infection, mastoiditis can develop.
In acute mastoiditis, infection may spread outside of the mastoid bone and cause serious health complications. Mastoiditis typically affects children, but adults can also be affected.
Some people have chronic mastoiditis, an ongoing infection of the middle ear and mastoid that causes persistent drainage from the ear.

Stabbing Pain behind Earlobe

If you have ever felt a sharp stinging pain in and around your earlobe, it is better you know it could be a sign of an underlying ailment. If the pain is accompanied by fever, it could be a serious ear infection. You may have to undergo several tests depending on the severity of the pain and how long you have had it. This is the only way to determine the underlying cause.
It is also important to watch out for the accompanying symptoms that may be a sign of a serious infection. It is also important to get immediate medical attention. This will prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body. The fact that the ears are so close to the brain makes the sharp pain behind ear very dangerous.

How to Get Rid of Throbbing Pain behind Ear

When it comes to ear, they are sensitive and one of the delicate part of the body. Any infection or underlying condition can cause a lot of pain. A throbbing ear is one of the first few symptoms of an infection. The pain may worsen when you touch your ear, and this could be due to the presence of excess fluids in the ear.
What causes of a throbbing ear pain
The easiest way to get rid of your pain behind ear is by finding the source of the problem. The pain could be due to fluid behind the eardrum, wax build up, inner ear infection, or pulsating tinnitus.
Many at times, earaches or throbbing is experienced is when fluid collects in your ear and causes imbalance. While the use of ear buds or Q-tips is controversial, make sure you visit a doctor for regular cleaning of the wax. A build-up of wax could not only lead to pain and throbbing but also may worsen into an infection.
If you have an inner ear infection, there will considerable pain, and the throbbing will be felt deep inside your ear. The inner ear is a small area, and so swelling of blood vessels and nerves due to infections causes the throbbing sensation. A doctor can treat this condition with antibiotics.
Pulsating tinnitus is a very irritating condition where you can hear your ears ringing or the sound of your heartbeat. The throbbing pulse in the ear is due to the blood flow. This mostly occurs when there is a swollen or damaged tissue in the Eustachian tube located behind the eardrum.
How to relieve a throbbing pain behind ear
At the first sign of ear pain, make sure you go to a doctor; the earlier you get the required treatment, the better it will be for you. Getting treatment for a throbbing ear and pain from a doctor is advisable as you could worsen the condition by trying to cure it by yourself.
To add on that, there are numerous home remedies that you could try out. This may include the following:

  • Increase your Vitamin C intake as it helps in building your immune system and to fight infections off better. Include vitamin C-rich foods like oranges and other citrus fruits in your diet.
  • You can use some oils like mustard and olive oil that help with soothing the pain and to soften the wax, but be careful when using these oils as ear drops.
  • A warm pack of water placed over your ear could give you some much needed relief.
  • Ginger and garlic juice are also known to be good pain relievers.
  • If you are unsure of the safety of home remedies consult your doctor who will recommend what is suitable for your ear.

More references

  1. Sharp pain behind your ears: http://www.newhealthadvisor.com/Sharp-Pain-Behind-Ear.html
  2. What causes pain on the back of the ears: http://www.healthline.com/health/headache-behind-ear#Overview1
  3. Pain behind the ear: https://www.severe-headache-expert.com/pain-behind-the-ear/
  4. Causes of pain behind ear and down the neck: http://www.livestrong.com/article/254123-causes-of-pain-behind-the-ear-and-down-the-neck/
  5. Occipital neuralgia: http://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/occipital-neuralgia-symptoms-causes-treatments#1
Categories Ear

Crusty Ears Causes: White Crust in Ear Canal, Folds, Lobe, Piercing, Discharge, Wax, Behind, Get Rid

When one has crusty ears, this may result to discomforts and embarrassment. Having dry, crusty, flaky ears could mean a number of things. It may be something as simple like excess buildup of earwax or disease infection such as seborrheic dermatitis. When you have crusty ears and suspect that it may be as a result of some disease, see a doctor.
In other cases, it may be something you use that is causing some allergic reaction such as cleanser, lotion, toner, or shampoo. At other times, it may occur due to changes in weather and dryness of the skin around the ears.

Symptoms of flaky ears

Those ears that are crusty caused due to ear rashes are often similar to skin rashes affecting other areas of the body. Some of the signs and symptoms that may accompany crusty ears are listed below:

  • The affected skin on the ear may experience blistering, spots, grainy lumps, or tiny bumps development especially behind the ears. The skin rashes may occasionally be full of fluids, resulting in irritation, itchiness, and pain.
  • Formation of pimple-like growths may also appear on the area. Such growths may multiply over time.
  • Also a swelling or inflammation of the rash area may form. The skin behind the ears may become reddish or pinkish in colour.
  • When crusty ears is accompanied by vomiting, fever, etc. along with skin rashes, then it may be an indication of some underlying health disorder which may need to be addressed by a doctor.

Crusty Ear Canal Causes

When you have a dry skin in ear area, it is nothing anyone would want to have especially if the skin is itchy, flaky and crusty.  Here we are going to talk more about what causes itchy ears and dry skin in the ear canal. Flaky or crusty ears is not a life threatening condition, but living with the signs and symptoms can be a bother.
After carrying out more research on this, we have more information on what causes dry skin inside the ear canal. Read below to understand flaking in the ear better from what causes, what to do and what not to when your ear is itching, and finally treatment with home cures.
Causes of crusty ears
Some of the common causes and respective symptoms and treatments of crusty ears are listed below:
Varied infections
Crusty ears may result from bacterial, fungal, or viral infections of the skin on the ears. For example, improperly done ear piercings are at increased risk to developing bacterial infections. Patients with ear infections may experience itchiness, redness, and skin scaling.
Treatment
Bacterial and fungal infections are respectively treated with topical and/or oral antibiotics or antifungals. Maintaining good hygiene is also recommended.
Dermatitis
Contact or atopic dermatitis are often caused due to irritation or an allergic reaction to some chemicals. Patients may experience inflammation, itchiness, and redness.
Treatment
Crusty ears caused by dermatitis are treated with topical or oral drugs, antibiotics, or phototherapy. Home treatments include avoidance of harsh soaps, moisturizing the skin on a daily basis, wearing clothes that are light and made of soft fabrics, use of humidifiers, and using ice packs.
Seborrheic dermatitis
This is a dermatological condition cause dandruff-like white skin flaking and scaling. Along with flaky ears, especially on the back part of ear or ear creases, patients may experience itchiness, dry skin, and discomfort. The exact cause of seborrheic dermatitis is not clear, but certain factors like stress, cold weather, malassezia yeast infection, Parkinson’s disease, and/or HIV/AIDS can trigger or aggravate it.
Treatment
This kind of disease is treatable but cannot be cured. Hence, patients tend to experience flare-ups at regular intervals. Treatment involves daily, careful, and through washing of the affected section of ear skin with medicated shampoos and soaps.
Eczema
Eczema is a persistent skin disorder usually seen by rashes, redness, itching, and inflammation of skin. A doctor may treat it with lifestyle changes and topical and oral medications.
Heat rash
This is a skin condition that is caused by blockage of sweat glands which causes moisture and sweat to get trapped under the skin. The affected person may experience the formation of tiny bumps on skin, itchy and crusty ears, flaking skin, and redness.
Treatment
This may involve keeping the skin dry which is the best treatment option. Use prickly heat powders, keep the skin moisturized and hydrated, use humidifiers, and follow other guidelines to prevent excessive sweating and exposure to heat. Severe heat rashes are treated with medications.
Psoriasis

This skin disorder is marked by irritation, itchiness, redness, abnormal patchy and flaking skin, and development of scaly white areas on the skin.
Treatment is focused on containing the rash and preventing infections. Topical and oral medications may be prescribed along with injections. Phototherapy may also be used in certain cases.
Measles
This viral infection is another cause of crusty ears. Patients may develop a fever along with skin rashes on the forehead and behind the ears; the rash occurs as patches of small, pinkish, flat spots.
Treatment
Medications are used for alleviation of pain and fever. Ear infections are treated with antibiotics. Home remedies include keeping hydrated, salt water gargling, sufficient rest, and cold compresses.
Bacterial meningitis
This is a serious condition that requires urgent medical care. One of the most common symptoms is the development of a purplish to reddish rash. Late treatment can increase the risk to development of life-threatening complications.
Treatment
The condition is treated with antibiotics, painkillers, and sedatives. Vaccines are the best way to prevent/avoid this cause of crusty ears.
Chickenpox
This contagious disease is marked by formation of itching distinctive blisters or sores that initially develop on the face, along with cough, fever, and headaches and can cause crusty ears as well.
Treatment
The infection is treated with antivirals and topical medications. Home remedies include increased intake of fluids, not scratching the blisters, maintenance of good hygiene, and use of anti-itch creams, etc. Vaccination is the best way to prevent crusty ears-causing chickenpox.
Folliculitis
This is infection of the hair follicles and is characterized by itching skin rashes on the ears, irritation, redness, and blister formation.
Treatment
As per the seriousness of the infection, crusty ears caused by folliculitis may be treated in varied ways including use of antifungals or antibiotics.
Middle ear infection
This condition is also called chronic otitis media, it is caused due to viral or bacterial infection and multiplication of the fluid that accumulates in the middle ear. Along with crusty ears and skin rash, patients may experience chills, fever, pus drainage, and ear fullness and pain.
Treatment
This is dependent on the symptoms and its severity. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed for fever and pain alleviation. Excess fluids may need to be drained via surgery. Sufficient hydration and rest can help the overall healing and recovery process.
Dry skin
This is whereby, loss of moisture from skin can cause crusty ears, itchiness, and scaling. Dryness of the skin on the ears may occur due to varied underlying conditions.
Treatment of dry skin is dependent on diagnosis of the underlying caused. Intake or water and fluids, moisturizing the skin, and use of OTC lotions and creams is suggested for alleviation of dry skin.
Otis Externa
Also called ‘swimmers ear,’ is the condition marked by inflammation of the outer ear and the ear canal. Patients may develop a skin rash at the back part of the ear, crusty ears, and itchiness.
Treatment
The condition is treated with antifungal medications, antibiotics, ear drops, and hot compresses, etc.

Crusty Behind Ears

Crusty ears is a symptom of some kind of skin rash or other underlying conditions that affect the ears, including the external and internal regions as well as the surrounding areas. Some of the common causes of flaky behind ears may range from environmental reaction to allergens that area harmful to the skin or diseases such as seborrheic dermatitis.
In case you are a victim of crusty ears, you may try some home remedies discussed below or if the case is serious, visit your skin doctor.

Crusty Ear Discharge

Your infected ear may start to ooze some smelly crusty discharge. This is really a symptom of your condition being severe. The crusty form of the discharge usually is due to the drying of the discharge, or it is a sign that the condition has taken sometime in your ear. It is very important to see your doctor in case you feel your ears being itchy as this may be the early signs of this condition.

Types of Ear Discharge

  • Pus or Cloudy Fluid. This is the most common type of ear discharge. The main cause is an ear infection. The drainage is from a torn eardrum. The eardrum ruptures in about 10% of bacterial ear infections.
  • Ear Tube Fluid Release. Children with frequent ear infections may get ventilation tubes put in. These help the middle ear drain its fluids and become dry. Sometimes, the ear tube gets plugged up. Normal fluids build up in the middle ear until the ear tube opens up again. This can cause some clear fluid drainage from the ear canal for a day.
  • Earwax. Earwax is light brown, dark brown, or orange brown in colour. If it gets wet, it can look like a discharge.
  • Blood. This follows an injury to the ear. Usually, it’s just a minor scratch of the lining of the ear canal.
  • Water. Bath water or tears can get in the ear canal. Seeing a clear “discharge” that happens once is likely this.
  • Ear Drops. The person who sees the discharge may not know someone else put in drops.
  • Swimmer’s Ear Discharge. Early symptoms are an itchy ear canal. Later symptoms include a whitish, watery discharge. Mainly occurs in swimmers and in the summer time.
  • Ear Canal Foreign Body (Object). Young children may put small objects in their ear canal. It can cause a low grade infection and pus coloured discharge. If the object was sharp, the discharge may have streaks of blood.

Crusty Ear Wax

A number of people think earwax is unsanitary, but surprisingly, your ears would be even dirtier without it. Earwax collects dirt, oils and dead skin cells as they make their way through your ear canal. At the end of the canal, the wax turns dry and flaky, then falls out of your ear by itself. If you have too much wax, though, you may want to remove it before it builds up.
Contrary to popular numerous believes, a cotton-tipped swab doesn’t help get out the flaky earwax. In fact, it may push wax further back into the ear canal adding more problems to your situation. You can try professional earwax removal kits to do it safely. Remove excess earwax safely to avoid harming your delicate ears.

How to remove crusty ears wax

Step 1
Soak a cotton ball with an over-the-counter ear drop solution. Or use baby oil, hydrogen peroxide, saline solution or mineral oil. Use water-based products to break up earwax and oil-based ones to soften the wax so it slides out easily.
Step 2
You have to do this while you tilt your head to one side so the opening of your ear faces up, then hold the cotton ball over your ear canal. Do not push the cotton ball into the canal. Hold your head in this position for about a minute. This allows the liquid to drip into your ear canal and loosen or break apart the wax.
Step 3
Tilt your head to the other side to allow the wax to drain out. Use a cloth or tissue to collect the liquid and wax as it comes out.
Step 4
If your ears still feel clogged, fill a bulb syringe with water and squirt some water into the ear canal to help remove any remaining wax.
Step 5
Repeat this process for the other ear, if necessary.
You have to be always careful while dealing with your ears to avoid causing problems to your eardrum. Also care must be taken as some of the crusty wax may go deep into the ear instead of coming out. A good way of doing it is buying a quality earwax removal tool/kit to help with the process.

White Crust in Ear Canal

Ear canal infection (otitis externa) is an inflammation or infection of the outer ear canal, and the passage leading from the external ear to the eardrum. The condition may develop when water, dirt or other debris gets into the ear canal. Since it is often associated with excess water in the ear canal, and frequently occurs in children and young adults who swim a great deal, the common name for this inflammation is “swimmer’s ear”.
Causes of otitis externa

  • It may be caused by excessive water exposure in the ear from swimming or even routine showering. When water pools in the ear canal, the skin becomes soggy and serves as a culture medium for bacteria. The moisture can cause the skin inside the ear canal to flake – a condition known as eczema. A break in the skin, which may result from scratching the persistent itch of the eczema, can allow bacteria or to invade the tissue of the ear canal and cause an infection.
  • Acute otitis externa is commonly caused by a bacterial infection caused by StreptococcusStaphylococcus, or Pseudomonastypes of bacteria.
  • Chronic otitis externa can be caused by a bacterial infection, but it is more likely to be caused by chronic dermatitis of the ear canal. People with chronic skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis are more prone to outer ear infections.
  • Swimming in polluted water is a common cause of swimmer’s ear, especially if there is already inflammation or broken skin: the bacteria in the water find the moist, inflamed ear canal an ideal environment.
  • Hot and humid weather conditions promote the development of outer ear infections.
  • In most cases, more than one factor may be involved. For example, someone with eczema may subsequently develop black ear drainage. This would suggest an accompanying fungus.
  • Excessive and harsh cleaning of wax from the ears can lead to infection. Wax protects the ear canal from excess moisture and harbours beneficial bacteria. Removing this protective barrier – particularly with fingernails or other sharp objects that can scratch the skin – makes it easier for an infection to take hold.
  • Use of products such as bubble baths, shampoos, hair spray and hair dye can irritate the ear canal and lead to an outer ear infection.
  • Foreign objects are often placed in the ear by young children or enter the ear accidentally while an individual tries to clean or scratch the ear. Foreign objects such as hearing aids and ear buds can cause chronic irritation.
  • Insects may become trapped in the ear.
  • Chronic drainage from middle ear disease may infect the outer ear.
  • Tumours are a rare cause of outer ear infection.
  • Diabetes is often associated with a particularly severe form of otitis externa.

Crusty Ear Lobe Piercing

Ear piercing is the oldest form of body modification, with references dating back to the early history of mankind. Ear piercings also extend further than just the lobe. Today, we have industrials, rook, helix, inner, and outer conch, anti-tragus, orbital, and reverse lobe piercings.
After an ear piercing session, instead of healing of the wound, you may start developing crusty ears around the area of the pierce. This is mostly due to allergic reaction that may arise from the jewelry that was put in the hole after the process. For those with sensitive skin, you may just find yourself reacting to the trauma that occurred on your ear skin.

What to do to avoid crusty ear lobe piercing

  • Most piercers will recommend cleaning the jewellery and area around the jewellery with a mild soap while in the shower. Make sure to thoroughly rinse it. You do not want to leave any soap to irritate it.
  • You can, also, clean with saline. Soak a cotton ball, and hold it to the piercing for 10- 15 minutes, 2-3 times a day.
  • Try not to play with the jewellery unless you are cleaning it. The more you irritate it, the harder it will be to heal.
  • Do not over clean, as drying it out will, also, irritate it.
  • The average healing time for most ear piercings range from 6-10 weeks. Cartilage piercings take longer to heal.

How to Get Rid of Crusty Ears

The best treatment for dry skin inside ears will depend on the cause. In other words, what causes ears to itch is what needs to be addressed first in itching ears treatment. For example if your hearing aid is the one to blame for the itching in the ear, then having the mild checked and probably changed will solve the itching ear.
Dry scaly ears as a result of a skin condition will also cure once the specific skin condition is treated. It is advisable to see a dermatologist to prescribe the best treatment for ear eczema, ear psoriasis or dandruff in the ear.
It is important that you do not use cotton buds or q tips often on your crusty ears as you may strip them of natural lubrication. If wax build up is a real concern for you, it is safer to approach an ENT specialist who can carry out a professional clean up. He will also recommend how often you will need a clean-up.
Some people scratch their ears out of nervousness and anxiety. This may irritate the skin in the ear, or on the lobe and one may end up with some scabs if the scratching is frequent and vigorous. To avoid this, make a conscious effort to not scratch your ears, or poke objects into them.

Home remedies to cure dry skin inside ear

The following remedies will help to cure dry crusty ears.
Garlic and Olive Oil
By know the whole world knows garlic is a powerful natural antibiotic. In this remedy, we are relying on its antibacterial properties to combat dry skin in ears. Crush some garlic cloves and mix in a tablespoon of olive oil. Heat this mixture gently till you see it begin to bubble then leave to cool.
Use this remedy as natural ear drops for itchy ears by applying with a dropper inside the ear.
Olive Oil
In cases where the ear is not producing enough wax, you can use olive oil to act as the natural lubricant and ease the dryness. Apply two drops of pure olive oil using a dropper every time you feel the dryness.

Categories Ear

Itching in inner Ear: Deep Inside, Meaning, Superstition, Allergies, and Throat, Get Rid

My ears itch deep inside, what is the meaning? You might have chronically itchy ears simply because they’re highly sensitive. However, itchy ears can also indicate an underlying medical condition. By understanding some of the causes of itchy ears, you can determine how to find solution to your problem.

What are the symptoms of itchy ears?

Itching in ears can be irritating and bothersome. You may think that scratching will help. However, your ears will probably feel worse when you scratch. Infected, itchy ears can be accompanied by:

  • fever
  • swelling
  • drainage from the ear

Itchy Ears Meaning

Itchy ears can easily mean your ear is infected. The ear canal, ear lobe or the skin on the outer ear can become itchy and irritated. Your doctor can prescribe an external ointment to treat mild infections. You can also use essential oils for itchy ears.
The ear canal can appear to be normal on examination or there can be some scaling of skin. People aggravate the problem by use of things like bobby-pins, coat hangers as well as the tooth picks so as to scratch the ear. This may bring about abrasions to the ear canal.

Ear Itching Superstition

Here is one most of us have probably heard of, the itching ears. One pretty cool saying I found for this was “left for love, right for spite.” Supposedly if your ears are itching, no matter which one, it means someone is talking about you. I’ve also heard it put as, if your ears are burning, then someone’s talking about you.
But I’ve researched this further to find that if your left ear is itching it means either someone you love is talking about you, or whoever is talking about you is saying something nice. Then the right ear itching is just the opposite. This means someone you’re feuding with is talking about you, or they’re saying something bad about you. If your right ear is itching, you should lick your finger and wipe it on your ear lobe.
If a person has itchy ears it means that someone is talking about them as some people believe although it is not yet been proven by scientists. The belief further reveals that, it depends if the left or right ear is itching as to whether someone is being nice or bad.
If the right ear is itching it means someone is being unkind about the person with the itchy ear. If the left ear is itching then it means someone is being nice about the person with an itchy ear. There are lots of different superstitions about parts of the body itching. If the palm of right hand itches it means money will be received but if the left palm itches it means money will be paid out.

Itchy in Ear Causes

This ear condition can be caused by a variety of factors that range from mild irritation to bacterial infections. Knowing the potential causes of itching ears and seeking medical treatment in the event of unexplained or chronic symptoms can help to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment, allowing for healthy recovery and relief from uncomfortable itching.

Common causes of itchy ears

Swimmer’s Ear
This is an infection that develops in the outer ear canal. The infection occurs when moisture becomes trapped inside the ear and creates an optimal environment for bacteria. The condition usually develops after swimming in water bodies with dirty water, and it can also occur as a result of injuries to the skin of the ear canal that allow bacteria to enter and multiply.
Apart from itching ears, symptoms of swimmer’s ear include intense pain, especially when pulling on the ear lobe, discharge and muffled hearing. Swimmer’s ear is commonly treated with antibiotic ear drops.
Hearing Aid or Ear Bud Irritation
Hearing aids and ear buds can cause itching inside the ears in two different ways. First, the earpieces can cause fluid to build up inside the ears, which in turn can cause an allergic reaction. Second, ear buds or hearing aids that don’t fit properly can increase pressure inside the ear, leading to itching and irritation.
Excessive Ear Wax
Excess build-up of wax in the ear is another common condition that causes itching and discomfort in the ear canal. Additional symptoms of ear wax build-up include pressure and slightly muffled hearing in the ear canal.
Treatment: This condition is usually remedied by holding a warm compress against the ear to loosen the blockages. In certain cases, severely impacted ear wax must be removed by a medical professional.
Dry Skin
As per the name, dry skin inside the ears occurs when the ears do not produce an adequate amount of wax. When the skin of the ear canal is overly dry, itching ears and inflammation are common. Individuals with overly dry ears may also notice flaky, dry skin around the outside of the ear canal.
Treatment: The condition may require treatment with lubricating drops, so it is always important to seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
Allergic Rhinitis
This is an upper respiratory condition that develops when the immune system overreacts to allergens such as pet dander, dust mites and plant pollens. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include itching ears, itchy eyes, sneezing, coughing and nasal congestion.
Treatment: Allergic rhinitis is most often treated with antihistamine medications and allergy shots that help the immune system and build up a tolerance to the allergens.
Ear canal dermatitis
This occurs when the skin in and around the ear canal becomes inflamed. This condition can be the result of an allergic reaction to products in or near your ear, such as personal care products or metal in earrings. Another type of dermatitis in the ear is called aural eczematoid dermatitis, which has unknown causes.
Otitis externa (outer ear infection)
Also known as the infection of the outer ear canal, otitis externa can cause ear pain as well as itching ears. It is usually almost the same as swimmer’s ear and is caused by inflammation, which is usually due to infection. It can lead to redness and swelling.
Psoriasis
This is a skin condition that causes a person to develop a red rash. Psoriasis can occur on visible parts of the body, such as arms or inside the ears.
Insufficient earwax
Not having sufficient ear wax or impacted ear wax can cause irritation in the ear canal. You can as well have to deal with itchy ears if the ears don’t produce enough amount of earwax. This normally causes dry itching ears and you can notice flaking skin dropping out of the ears.
Ear infection
An ear infection or also known as the otitis media can bring about severe pain and make the ears feel itchy. If you’re a swimmer, you’re likely to have this condition since the outer canal of the ear becomes infected, and the infection leads to a swelling and redness.
Other causes
There are several other factors that can as well lead to an itchy ears. This includes stress, medications, and also extreme heat or even cold. In very rare cases, severe itching ears can be an indication of a serious and life-threatening condition, so it is vital to set an appointment with the ENT specialist so as to rule out serious issues like anaphylaxis.
General treatment
In many cases, itching ears can be treated with natural remedies, but there is always the chance that an infection may be present, so it is best to consult with a medical professional to ensure the underlying cause is correctly diagnosed and the itching is dealt with appropriately.

Itchy inner Ear and Throat

There are some of the most common symptoms of allergies and similar disorders which include itchy throat and ears. Sore, itchy throat is one of the most common throat problems. If your throat itches, it is most likely that you will also have itching inside ear. The reason is that throat, ear and nasal passages are all connected from the inside.
Therefore, a problem with any one of these organs also affects the functioning of the others. There are several causes for itchy inner ear and throat. In this article, you will also find some effective remedies to treat the same.
Causes of itchy ear and throat
Allergies
These are the prime cause of itchy throat and ears. There are several nerves which end in the throat. These nerves are protected under the mucus lining inside the throat. Sometimes, the ends of the nerves get exposed due to dried mucus lining. As a result, allergens such as pollutants, certain foods irritate the nerve ends and cause itchy throat. The passage from throat to ears also itches due to same reason. Dairy products, peanuts are some common culprits for food allergies.
Dehydration
Dryness of the throat is mainly what causes itchy throat and itching ears. Dehydration is common during fever or infections, which leads to drying up of mucus lining in the throat. As a result, you experience itching inside the throat. Dehydration also occurs as a side effect of certain medications or a result of excessive smoking, tobacco chewing, besides, certain diseases such as AIDS
Infections
Certain viral and bacterial infections may lead to sore throat, which also itches at times. Bacteria called streptococcus is responsible for sore, strep throat. Viral infections usually manifest in the form of common cold and flu. Bacterial throat infections also contribute to the inflammation of the tonsils, larynx and pharynx and extend to the itching ears as well.
Treatment for Itchy Throat and Ears
Antihistamines
Antihistamines can effectively relieve the symptoms of itchy ears and throat. They can substantially reduce the allergic response to certain allergens. The antihistamines that are often used for treating this condition are diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine. Certain herbs like green tea and licorice also act as natural histamines.
Antibiotics
If itchy throat and ears is due to viral or bacterial infections, then antibiotics can prove to be of great help. Antibiotics are mostly used for treating bacterial infections.
Home Remedies
There are a number of home remedies that can effectively relieve the symptoms of itching ears and throat.

  • Gargling with warm salt water soothes itchy and sore throat. If you wish, you may also add a pinch of turmeric to this water. Turmeric is a natural disinfectant, thus gets rid of all types of infections.
  • Alternatively, you may also boil a cup of milk and add a pinch of turmeric to it. Drink this milk at night as it is a great remedy for sore throat and ear pain.
  • Eating a few cloves of garlic with honey also helps relieve the itchiness in throat.
  • Similarly, warm concoction of ginger, tea and honey also soothes the itchy throat.
  • Steam vaporizer gives an instant relief from itchy throat as it hydrates the throat and stimulates the mucus production, thereby reducing the itching.

Although, itchiness in ear and throat is not a serious problem, it can definitely affect your quality of life by making you irritable. Hence, you should certainly take measures to treat this condition.

Itchy Outer Ears

The ear is divided into three separate compartments: the inner, middle, and outer ear. The inner ear contains the balance organs and the nerves vital to hearing. The middle ear contains the bones that link the eardrum to the inner ear. The eardrum separates the middle and outer ears. The outer ear is simply the earlobe and a short tube leading to the eardrum.
Infection of the inner ear is called labyrinthitis. Infection of the middle ear is called otitis media. It can cause temporary hearing loss and can progress to the inner ear if ignored. Infection of the outer ear is called otitis externa or swimmer’s ear. It is rarely serious.
Outer ear infections can be acute or chronic lasting 3 or more months and are more common in children 7 to 12 years of age. Outer ear infections also more commonly affect people in warm and humid climates, people who swim, and people who use devices that protect hearing. This can be characterised by itching ear on the outside or earlobe, and sometimes crusty skin on the outer ear.

How to get Rid of Itching in Ear

A doctor will check to see if pulling the earlobe gently or pushing the tragus, the small flap of ear just in front of the canal opening, causes pain. If these symptoms are present, you can be pretty sure it’s an external infection and not otitis media. The doctor can often make the diagnosis simply by looking in the ear with an otoscope (an instrument for examining the ear).
A lab culture may be ordered to identify the particular organism only if the first treatment recommended by the doctor doesn’t seem to be working.
Treatment and Prevention

For most outer ear infections, your doctor will prescribe an eardrop that contains a combination of:

  • an acidic solution to make the ear canal a less favourable environment for bacteria to grow
  • a steroid to reduce swelling and inflammation
  • an antibiotic or antifungal

Your doctor will first clear the debris out of the ear canal. In severe cases, if the canal is partly closed by inflammation, a wick can be inserted to draw the eardrops in. The wick expands and holds the medication close to the infected area in the ear. When using eardrops, warm them to body temperature by holding the container in your hand for a few minutes before putting the drops in.
For severe infections, antibiotics taken by mouth will be prescribed. Treatment of malignant otitis externa requires several weeks of antibiotics given into a vein.
Home remedies
Conditions such as swimmer’s ear, bacterial inner ear infections and allergies that cause itching ear must often be treated with antibiotics, prescription ear drops, antihistamines or over-the-counter medications to avoid complications. Since itching ear canals can be caused by a variety of factors, it is always best to consult with a physician before engaging in any type of home remedy to treat the condition.
Rubbing Alcohol and Vinegar
Relieve itching in the ear canals by applying a mixture of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol to the affected areas with a cotton swab. This treatment should only be utilized once or twice daily; overuse of alcohol may cause the ear canal to dry out, which can lead to additional itchiness.
Warm Oil Drops
Homemade oil drops are a natural treatment that can often help to relieve itching in the ears. The most common oil drops used to treat itchiness in the ears include olive oil, mineral oil or vegetable oil. The oil should be warmed for approximately 15 to 20 minutes prior to application. Placing the entire oil bottle or container in a glass or bowl of warm water is the safest way to heat the oil.
Salt
Salt is one the most readily found home remedy for itchy ears.

  • Heat 1 cup of salt on a pan over low heat for 5 minutes. You can as well heat it in a microwave.
  • Place the hot salt on a clean cloth and seal the open end using a rubber band (or even tie a knot).
  • When it is very hot, lay down and then put the cloth on the itchy ears for 10 minutes.
  • Repeat the remedy daily as many times as required. The heat that is generated from the sock can assist to draw out fluid from the ear and thus relieve swelling and pain.

As an alternative, you can make use of a cup of rice in the same method that is described above.
Garlic
Garlic contains an antimicrobial properties and also the natural pain relieving properties, making it very effective in the treatment of itchy ears. There are a few methods that can garlic be used as a home treatment.

  • Make garlic oil by cooking about 2 garlic cloves in 2 tablespoons of the sesame oil or even the mustard oil until it turns black in colour. Strain the solution. When it is hot, use 2 drops of this oil in the infected ear as the ear drops.
  • Alternatively, you can as well boil 2 fresh garlic cloves in water for 5 minutes, crush them and add some small amount of salt. Put the mixture in a cloth and place it against the itchy ears.
  • Consuming 3 cloves of raw garlic daily also assists to speed up the healing process.

Basil
You can as well make use of the holy basil to treat minor earache and itchy ears. It can relieve ear pain and also reduce infection.

  • Crush 5 fresh holy basil leaves gently so as to extract the juice. Use the basil juice on or even around the infected ear. Avoid having the juice get in the ear canal.
  • You can as well mix 2 drops of holy basil oil with an equal amount of carrier oil such as the coconut oil. Soak a clean cotton ball in the mixture and slowly wipe the inside of the ear, around the outer edge and also behind the ear. Repeat the procedure twice daily.

Warm Compresses
When itching ear canals are caused by a build-up of ear wax, you may find relief by applying warm compresses or hot water bottles to the outer sides of the affected ears. The warmth from the compress or bottle can help to loosen the wax and make it easy to remove, which in turn can help relieve symptoms of itching. Wait until the wax is visible outside of the ear canal before removing it, as digging too deep into the ear may lead to injury or infection.
More references

  1. Causes of itchy ear: http://www.healthline.com/symptom/itchy-ear
  2. Superstition for itching ears: https://www.reference.com/world-view/superstition-itching-ears-c69ed0e2795490d3