Is the dome insertion in the canal too deep or too shallow? Figure 1 shows a pair of thin tubes where the length of the vertical part is about the same, but the horizontal part of the left thin tube is shorter than the right one. Is the dome size right? Try to change the dome size or change to a different type of dome (open dome, tulip dome or closed dome). Is the tube too short, pulling the skin of ear too tight, or is it too long, causing the hearing aid to “float” above the ear? A too short tube will cause pressure to the skin a too loose tube may cause the hearing aid to move easily and cause irritation when the head is moved. When patients do complain about itching/irritation with an open fitting, we need to have a look at the fit. It follows that the fit cannot be perfect in all cases. Whether it is a thin tube or receiver-in-the-ear (RIE) style, we are dealing with non-customized fitting and limited tube/receiver lengths and dome sizes to select. One of the most common causes of itching for open fitting is poor fit of the dome in the ear canal. Chlorohexadin, a commonly used disinfectant in the clinic, is an example of such an agent. However, some patients can be allergic to the cleaning agent used to clean the dome. The domes for open fitting are made from medical grade silicone allergic reaction is less likely than for a custom earmold. These could include such issues as poor fit or allergic reaction to otoplastic materials. In many cases, users become accustomed to it and the itching sensation will pass, but there are instances that can be due to other factors and need our attention. Madsen, Larsen and Flink (1991) showed 39% of earmold users experienced itching as a side effect. So no wonder itching or irritation is a common complaint from the hearing aid user who comes in for a follow up visit. The ear canal has very delicate skin even a hair may cause itching in the ear. Additional options include garlic-infused olive oil as an antibiotic drop, tea tree oil or even olive oil applied to the site of irritation.Question What can you do when the patient says the hearing instrument is making their ears itch? Answer Many itchy ear issues can be cleared using hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol or vinegar. Nonetheless, treatment of itchy ears often hinges on curing the underlying cause of the issue. Most issues will clear up without medical intervention. Fungal infections typically occur in individuals who are swimmers or who frequently expose their ears to water while skin conditions can affect anyone who is prone to recurrent skin irritation. Likewise, seasonal allergies can cause itchy ear canals much the same way as a histamine release causes irritated, watery eyes. Both the overproduction and underproduction of wax can cause itchy ears. The five most common causes of itchy ears include abnormal wax production, allergies, fungal infection, skin conditions and bugs. It can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of itchy ears however, many common causes have been identified. Some more severe cases may also involve inflammation of the ear and an adverse effect on the individual’s hearing. Common symptoms include constant or persistent itch inside or surround the ear canal, inner ear pain or discomfort and discharge from the ear. While the associated symptoms of itchy ears may vary by individual, several common symptoms usually present in any individual. Identifying the exact cause of the issue is important to be able to effectively treat the issue. Nonetheless, itchy ears are relatively common and can arise as the result of several factors. Itchy ears constitute an example of a minute problem than can cause extreme discomfort and even inner ear pain. Symptoms, Causes and Treatment of Itchy Earsįrequently the minutest symptoms are the most perplexing and frustrating.
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