This Is What’s Happening Inside Your Ear When You’ve Got An Itch

#1 Having an itchy ear could suggest that you're allergic to one of the products you use in your daily routine

#2

It could be a build-up of wax or an early sign of infection.

It could also be an indication that you're allergic to something you use in your daily routine.

The NHS warns: "Your chances of getting otitis externa (swelling of the ear canal) are increased if you use certain products in or near your ears", including hairspray, harsh shampoos and hair dye.

#3 If the itch turns into a painful aching sensation, it's likely that you have an infection

#4

If the niggling itch in your ear becomes more than a minor irritation, it's likely to be a sign that you have an infection.

Attempting to keep liquids out of your ear canal can help to prevent inflammation from occurring.

The NHS website explains: "Liquid in your ear canal can make you more likely to develop an infection.

"Moisture provides an ideal environment for bacteria and to a lesser degree, fungi to grow."

#5 The NHS warns against using cotton buds, as they push wax deeper into the ear canal

#6

Even though the most popular method of clearing wax from the ear involves using a cotton bud, this can actually make the itching worse.

Failing to clean out your ears can lead to the build-up of bacteria, dirt and dust which may cause discomfort or infection.

The NHS warns against removing earwax with "your fingers, a cotton bud or any other object" because it "can damage your ear and push the wax further down."

Instead of using this method, they advise using wax-clearing eardrops that can be bought from a pharmacy.

#7 Dr David Hill believes this simple vinegar and alcohol solution helps to clear out ear wax

Dr David Hill, fellow of the American Academy of Paediatrics, believes that using a small amount of vinegar and alcohol can flush out the ear wax.

Step one: Mix up some white vinegar with equal parts of rubbing alcohol

Step two: Carefully pour a teaspoon of the fluid into your ear and tilt your head to one side

Step three: Hold the liquid in your ear for one minute before sitting back up and allowing it to drain from your ear

The mixture should help to lift ear wax, dirt and grease without pushing any of the unpleasant bacteria further into the ear canal.