My Hearing Aid Makes My Ear(s) Itch

Why Do Hearing Aids Sometimes Make Ears Itch And What You Should You Do?

Wearing hearing aids can sometimes cause itching in the ears, especially when you’re first adjusting to them. Below, we explore some common causes of ear itching and what you can do to address it.

Possible Causes of Itching

• Dryness: Hearing aids can block the natural spread of oils in your ear, leading to dryness and irritation.
• Allergies: Some individuals may be sensitive to the materials in hearing aids, such as plastic or silicone, which can cause allergic reactions or irritation.
• Moisture: Sweat or humidity trapped by the hearing aid may cause discomfort, especially in warm conditions.
• Earwax: Hearing aids can push earwax deeper into the canal, potentially leading to itching or discomfort.
• Improper Fit: A poorly fitting hearing aid may rub against your ear canal, causing irritation.

Why It Might Affect One Ear More Than the Other

It’s not uncommon for one ear to be more affected than the other due to:

• Differences in Ear Shape: Even small anatomical differences between your ear canals can cause one ear to react differently.
• Moisture or Wax Buildup: If one ear retains more moisture or produces more wax, it may be more prone to itching.
• Skin Sensitivity: The skin in one ear may be more sensitive, causing irritation from the hearing aid.

What You Can Do to Relieve Itching

1. Keep Your Hearing Aids Dry: Use a hearing aid dryer or dehumidifier overnight to reduce moisture buildup.
2. Clean Your Hearing Aids Regularly: Daily cleaning helps prevent wax and debris from irritating your ears.
3. Adjust the Fit: Visit your hearing aid specialist to check if the fit is too tight or too loose.
4. Switch to a Different Dome or Mold: If discomfort persists, try a different size or material.
5. Consider Hypoallergenic Coating: Some hearing aid coatings are designed for sensitive skin.
6. Apply Olive Oil or an Approved Moisturizer: A drop of olive oil on the outer part of your ear canal can help soothe dry or irritated skin. Olive oil provides moisture and a protective barrier to reduce friction between your ear and the hearing aid.

When It’s an Emergency

It’s important to know when itching is more than just a minor irritation. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Ear Discharge: Yellow or green fluid coming from your ear could be a sign of infection.
• Pain or Swelling: Persistent pain, redness, or swelling may indicate an infection or allergic reaction.
• Fever: If you develop a fever along with ear discomfort, it could be a sign of a more serious condition.
• Hearing Loss: Sudden or worsening hearing loss should be evaluated right away.

If you notice any of these symptoms, remove your hearing aid and consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Next Steps

If the itching persists despite trying the solutions above, or if you have any concerns, please reach out to us. We’re here to help ensure your hearing aids fit comfortably and work effectively for you.

References: American Academy of Audiology The American Academy of Audiology provides guidelines and resources about hearing aid care and maintenance, including information about ear irritation, moisture management, and earwax issues. Source: American Academy of Audiology Hearing Review: Skin Conditions and Hearing Aid Use This article from Hearing Review discusses common dermatological issues related to hearing aid use, including allergic reactions, moisture buildup, and ear canal irritation. Source: S. Fox, “Skin Conditions Associated with Hearing Aid Use,” Hearing Review, 2018. Mayo Clinic: Earwax Blockage The Mayo Clinic provides detailed information on the causes and symptoms of earwax buildup, which can lead to itching and discomfort when using hearing aids. Source: Mayo Clinic, “Earwax Blockage: Symptoms and Causes,”