Chronic Ear Itching: and Treating Ear Fungus Infections

Ear fungus? The ear is very itchy, and it took a long time to seek medical attention?

I apologize for the lengthy message, and I appreciate your time in reading it.
For at least the past four years, I have experienced persistent itching in my ears.
I often used cotton swabs to clean my ears, not realizing that my ear canals had become infected.
After cleaning one side, I would immediately clean the other side, resulting in infections in both ears.
Sometimes, after using the cotton swab, I noticed yellowish fluid and thick substances that had a foul odor.
After researching online, I suspected I might have an ear fungal infection, but I still delayed seeking medical attention.
I have a habit of washing my ears while showering, which often leads to water getting into my ear canals.
After suspecting a fungal infection, I began drying my ear canals with tissue or cotton swabs after showering.
After some time, I stopped noticing the yellow fluid, and I thought that keeping my ear canals dry would allow them to heal on their own.
However, the itching persisted, and I continued to use cotton swabs deep into my ear canals to relieve the itch.
Although I no longer found yellow fluid, there was still a foul smell.
Additionally, I have been dealing with athlete's foot and nail fungus, and in April of this year, I visited a dermatologist for treatment.
The doctor advised me to return for regular check-ups and blood tests.
I took oral antifungal medication for a total of 18 weeks, thinking that since it was also a fungal issue, it might help with the ear fungal infection as well, but there was no improvement.
Previously, I felt a significant area of itching in my ear canals, but after treating the nail fungus, the itching sensation seemed to shift to my eardrum.
I was concerned that using cotton swabs carelessly could potentially perforate my eardrum and allow the fungal infection to spread inside.
Just a few days ago, I visited an otolaryngologist, but the doctor only glanced at my ears and said, "It looks like just redness and inflammation; try not to clean your ears too often.
Since water gets in while showering, consider buying swimming earplugs." The doctor prescribed an ointment to apply twice daily.
However, this issue has persisted for several years, and I am worried that the symptoms may be more serious than they appear.
I am unsure if the infection has reached my eardrum without me feeling it, and I don't know how to ask the doctor for a thorough examination.
Therefore, I am seeking advice on what to do next: should I return for further examination, or is it sufficient to apply the medication until it resolves?
As a side note, my left ear occasionally itches, but there is no unusual fluid or odor when I clean it.
The right ear is more severe; although I no longer extract yellow fluid, there is still a foul smell each time I clean it deeply, and I often feel a sensation of something lodged inside.
When I close my eyes or press on my ear from the outside, I hear a crackling sound.
I used to clean my ears frequently with cotton swabs, but now I rarely do so except to dry them after showering.
I understand that it is quite concerning to have delayed addressing this issue for several years, but I genuinely want to find a permanent solution and am unsure of the next steps, possibly due to financial anxiety.
Thank you for your assistance in clarifying my concerns.

A Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/15

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if the physician finds no obvious signs of otitis media, tympanic membrane perforation, or fungal infection, the common itching may be related to chronic inflammation of the external auditory canal caused by excessive cleaning.
In addition to using ointment, it is advised not to use cotton swabs to clean the ear canal at other times.
Avoid getting water in the ear canal while bathing.
If itching occurs, applying a cold towel to the outer ear can help reduce the sensation.
If symptoms persist and do not improve, it is recommended to continue follow-up visits for treatment.

Reply Date: 2022/10/15

More Info

Chronic ear itching and fungal infections in the ear can be quite distressing and may lead to a cycle of irritation and further complications if not properly addressed. Based on your detailed description, it seems that you have been dealing with this issue for several years, which is not uncommon for individuals who may have underlying conditions or habits that exacerbate ear problems.

Firstly, it's important to understand that the ear canal is a delicate area that can easily become irritated or infected, especially with frequent cleaning using cotton swabs. While it may seem like a good idea to remove wax or debris, using cotton swabs can actually push wax further into the ear canal and cause micro-tears, leading to inflammation and infection. This is likely a contributing factor to your chronic itching and the foul odor you have noticed.

The presence of yellow discharge and a bad smell suggests that there may have been a fungal infection, commonly known as otomycosis. This condition can occur when the ear canal becomes moist, creating an ideal environment for fungi to thrive. Your habit of cleaning your ears frequently, combined with water exposure during bathing, may have contributed to this persistent issue.
You mentioned that you have been treated for other fungal infections, such as athlete's foot and nail fungus, with oral antifungal medications. However, it's important to note that not all antifungal treatments are effective for every type of fungal infection. The specific fungi that affect the skin of the feet may differ from those that infect the ear canal, which is why the oral treatment did not resolve your ear issues.

The advice given by your ENT specialist to avoid using cotton swabs and to keep your ears dry is crucial. Additionally, the topical ointment prescribed should help reduce inflammation and treat any remaining fungal infection. It's essential to apply the medication as directed and to follow up with your doctor if symptoms persist.
If you continue to experience itching, a feeling of blockage, or any unusual sounds in your ear, it would be wise to return to your ENT for further evaluation. They may perform a more thorough examination, possibly including an otoscopic evaluation to check for any signs of infection in the middle ear or damage to the eardrum.
In the meantime, consider these additional tips to manage your symptoms:
1. Avoid Water Exposure: Use earplugs or a shower cap while bathing to prevent water from entering your ears.
2. Keep Ears Dry: After bathing, gently dry your ears with a towel. Avoid inserting anything into your ear canal.

3. Limit Ear Cleaning: Resist the urge to use cotton swabs or other objects to clean your ears. The ear canal is self-cleaning, and excessive cleaning can lead to irritation.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, such as increased itching, discharge, or pain, and report these to your healthcare provider.

5. Consider Allergies: Sometimes, chronic ear itching can be related to allergies or eczema. Discuss this possibility with your doctor, as they may recommend allergy testing or a different treatment approach.

In conclusion, while it may feel overwhelming to have dealt with this issue for so long, there are effective strategies and treatments available. By following your doctor's advice, maintaining good ear hygiene, and seeking further evaluation if necessary, you can work towards resolving your chronic ear itching and preventing future infections.

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