What Causes Itchy Ears and Throat? Signs, Relief, and Prevention

For many, a persistent itch in the throat accompanied by the equally irritating sensation in the ears is an all-too-familiar experience. Living with an itchy throat and ears can be more than just a fleeting discomfort. The persistent scratching, the need to clear the throat, and the frustration of not finding immediate relief can be disconcerting. For some it can go further, becoming a chronic impediment, subtly undermining the quality of daily life.

Identifying the root causes, understanding the symptoms, and knowing the potential treatments can provide much-needed solace. This article delves into the complexities of itchy throat and ears, shedding light on causes, symptoms, and the best treatments.

Why Are My Ears and Throat Itchy?

There can be many reasons why your ears and throat begin to itch. It’ll range anywhere from allergies to the common cold. Whatever the case, learning the different causes can help determine what you have and what the best approach to handling your symptoms is.

With that being said, the most common causes of itchy ears and throat include:

Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is the body's inflammatory response to harmless substances, referred to as allergens, in the environment. When these allergens enter the respiratory system, they can irritate the mucous membranes of the ears and throat. The common allergens that can cause itchy ears and throat include:

• Dust mites
• Pollen
• Pet dander
• Mold
• Irritants like perfume and smoke

When exposed to these allergens, your immune system reacts and releases histamine and other chemicals that trigger allergy symptoms. In addition to itchy throat and ears, hay fever can cause other symptoms like:

• Itchy skin
• Itchy and watery eyes
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Coughing

Regular exposure to common allergens might exacerbate these allergy symptoms, leading to prolonged discomfort.

Food Allergies

Like allergic rhinitis, food allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to specific allergens in certain foods, such as peanuts or eggs. A mild food allergy will typically cause itchiness in the mouth, ears, and throat. However, severe food allergies can cause the following symptoms:

• Stomach cramps
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Hives or facial swelling
• Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is life-threatening and causes severe allergy symptoms like trouble swallowing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, wheezing, and fainting. As a result, you should call emergency services immediately if you start developing an anaphylactic reaction.

Medication Allergies

Some individuals may develop allergic reactions to specific medications. If you have medication allergies, you will develop an allergic reaction a few days or hours after using the drug. The symptoms of medication allergies include:

• Rashes
• Hives
• Itchiness in the ears and throat
• Trouble breathing
• Swelling
• Anaphylaxis in case of a severe drug allergy

Common Cold

The common cold is one of the viral infections that primarily affects nose and throat health. It’s highly contagious and spreads mainly through droplets from a person with a common cold when they cough, sneeze, or talk.

As the body mounts its defense against the virus, inflammation and irritation in the throat and ears can lead to an itching sensation, making it one of the recognizable cold symptoms of the ailment. Other symptoms of the common cold include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Cough
• Mild headache
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Watery eyes
• Sore throat, which can sometimes be itchy
• Mild body aches
• Low-grade fever (more common in children)

Sinus Infection

A sinus infection, or sinusitis, occurs when the nasal cavities become inflamed and swollen due to a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. This inflammation can cause mucus to build up, leading to symptoms that include pressure and pain in the face, as well as itchy ears and throat due to the interconnected passages of the ear, nose, and throat. Persistent or recurring sinus infections can exacerbate these symptoms.

Ear Infections

Ear itching can signify an impending ear infection or an already existing one, often stemming from bacteria or viruses associated with the common cold. Blockages due to excess wax or trapped water can also lead to ear infections. While an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist can often diagnose and treat standard infections, chronic ear infections that keep coming back may point to a deeper health concern, necessitating thorough medical attention.

Dry Ears

The ear's natural oils and wax serve as protective barriers, maintaining ear health. However, frequently removing this protective layer can result in dry, itchy ears. Adjusting your ear cleaning routine usually addresses the issue, but persistent symptoms warrant a visit to an ENT specialist.

Skin Conditions

Itchy ears can be attributed to certain skin ailments, including psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis, which cause dry, flaky skin. If these conditions manifest in other body areas, they could similarly affect the ears. Consult an ENT doctor before applying any remedies to the ear region.

What Do Itchy Throat and Ears Feel Like?

Understanding what an itchy throat and ears feel like is essential to determine what you have and what you can do about it. When experiencing itchy ears and throat, individuals often describe a range of sensations that can vary in intensity. Below are common descriptions for each:

Itchy Throat:

• A tickling or scratchy sensation at the back of the throat
• An urge to cough or clear the throat frequently
• A sensation of something stuck or lodged in the throat
• Mild soreness or rawness, especially when swallowing

Itchy Ears:

• Inflammation and redness inside the ear
• A nagging urge to scratch or insert a finger into the ear
• A sensation of fullness or blockage in the ear
• Mild pain or discomfort that comes and goes
• Occasionally, flaky or dry skin around the ear opening

How to Get Rid of Itchy Throat

You can reduce itching in the throat using a combination of at-home remedies and medications. Here are some effective methods to provide relief:

• Drink hot tea or soup: Warm beverages like tea or broth can provide immediate comfort by moisturizing the throat and reducing irritation.
• Eat a bit of honey: Honey acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and can coat the throat, relieving itchiness.
• Gargle saltwater: A saltwater gargle can help to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation, offering temporary relief.
• Turn on the humidifier: Keeping the air moist using a humidifier can prevent throat dryness and the accompanying itch, especially in dry climates or heated indoor environments.
• Cough drops and lozenges: Many over-the-counter (OTC) lozenges and cough drops contain ingredients that can soothe and moisturize the throat, reducing itching.
• Antihistamines for allergy-related itching: If your itchy throat is a symptom of allergies, OTC antihistamines can help block the body's inflammatory response, alleviating the itch.
• Sublingual immunotherapy: For those with allergy-related itchy throats, sublingual immunotherapy introduces small amounts of allergens under the tongue over time, building tolerance and reducing allergic reactions.

How to Get Rid of Itchy Ears

Alleviating itchy ears often involves both medicinal and home-based remedies. Here are some effective strategies to combat this discomfort:

• Olive oil or baby oil drops: For ears dry from skin conditions or hearing aids, a few drops of olive or baby oil can provide moisture and relief. When using the oil with hearing aids, apply the oil at night to avoid contact with the device.
• Gentle outer ear cleaning: A gentle cleaning of the outer ear can help alleviate symptoms. However, while cleaning the outer ear with a cloth is safe, inserting objects into the ear canal is not recommended.
• Earwax management: OTC ear drops or baby oil can help soften and remove excessive earwax. If ineffective, a saline solution syringing by a doctor or using an at-home irrigation kit might be necessary.
• Prescription treatments: You might need prescription ear drops or antibiotics for persistent itchiness or other types of ear infections. They are usually stronger and can provide better relief from itchiness.
• Antihistamines: Because antihistamines are effective in temporarily blocking allergic reactions, those experiencing itchy ears due to allergic rhinitis may benefit from antihistamines.
• Dietary tracking for food allergies: If certain foods induce ear itchiness, maintaining a food diary can help identify and avoid these triggers.
• Nasal sprays: Nasal sprays can help treat underlying nasal conditions that might contribute to ear itchiness.
• Sublingual immunotherapy: For those with allergy-induced itchy ears, sublingual immunotherapy introduces small amounts of allergens under the tongue. Over time, this results in desensitizing the immune system and long-term allergy relief.

Prevention

Preventing itchy ears and throat can enhance your overall comfort and well-being. Here are some proactive measures to help you avoid these annoyances:

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water keeps the throat moist and can help prevent dryness and itchiness.
• Avoid known allergens: If you know your specific triggers, such as pollen or pet dander, try to reduce exposure. This can minimize allergic reactions that cause itchiness in the throat and ears.
• Regular cleaning: Cleaning the outer ear gently with a cloth to prevent buildup can help avoid any unwanted reaction. But, avoid inserting objects into the ear canal.
• Humidify your environment: Using a humidifier, especially in dry climates or during winter, can prevent throat and ear dryness.
• Limit exposure to irritants: Smoke, excessive alcohol, and certain spicy foods can irritate the throat. Reducing exposure or consumption may prevent itchiness.
• Maintain good hygiene: Regular handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals can prevent infections that might lead to itchy ears and throat.
• Proper nutrition: Eating a balanced, healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall immune function, which in turn can help prevent infections that lead to itchiness.

When to See a Doctor for Itchy Throat and Ears?

If your itchy ears and throat persist despite home treatments or are accompanied by more severe symptoms, it's crucial to consult a medical professional. Symptoms such as difficulty breathing, pain, swelling, or hearing loss are signs that a more serious issue may be at hand.

Moreover, if you're unaware of your allergies or your current treatment plan isn't alleviating your allergic symptoms, a visit to the doctor becomes essential. Medical professionals have the tools and expertise to diagnose specific allergies through allergy tests. They will recommend a tailored and effective treatment plan based on your unique allergic profile.

Take Our Allergy Assessment

If itchy ears and throat are disrupting your life, sublingual immunotherapy might be your best treatment option. Our allergy doctors at Wyndly will take the time to understand your allergy profile and create a personalized treatment plan to help you live allergy-free. Take our online survey now to get started.