What Are the Treatments for Itchy Ears?

Itchy ears can be a sign of your allergies flaring up, psoriasis in your ears or an ear infection. There are several at-home remedies as well as over-the-counter and prescription medication to treat your irritated ears. If your symptoms do not go away within two to three days, contact your physician because your condition could worsen if left untreated. Never insert sharp or pointed objects into your ear because you can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage.

Ear Infection

• If you develop otitis externa, also known as swimmer's ear, your ears are infected with bacteria because water gets trapped in your ear. When water is trapped in your ear, bacteria grows and infects the inner ear and leads to itching. Over-the-counter medications such as Similasan Earache Drops and Hyland's Earache Drops are an inexpensive option for treating your ear infection, but the directions must be followed carefully. Your doctor can also prescribe ear drops that contain the active ingredient isopropyl alcohol to dry out your ears.

Allergy Medication

• If your itchy ears are caused by seasonal or environmental allergies, take Benadryl or another name-brand medication. Zyrtec and Claritin fight against allergies by providing your body with antihistamines, a medication that blocks histamines from reacting to your body's exposure to allergens. Mast cells in the lining of your nose and throat release histamines when allergens attach themselves, thus releasing histamines. The antihistamines block the histamine receptor sites and treat your itchy ears. Most medications take up to 12 hours before reducing symptoms and up to one week to achieve maximum results.

Psoriasis

• Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes skin to quickly build up and produce red patches and flaky, itchy skin. If psoriasis occurs inside your ear, you can develop chronic irritated, itchy ears. Your doctor can prescribe a corticosteroid ear medication that you must use daily to reduce symptoms. To treat itchy ears, follow your doctor's directions closely.