Itchy ears inside with a sore throat

The lining of the nose, throat and ear passages is closely connected. Nasal allergy or a viral cold can cause throat soreness, blocked pressure and an itchy sensation. Acid moving up from the stomach may irritate the throat, while skin irritation, wax or inflammation in the ear canal may add local itching. The combination does not identify one diagnosis by itself.

Drink fluids and avoid smoke, fragranced sprays and scratching inside the ear. Saline nasal rinsing may ease nasal irritation when used safely. Choose pain relief or an allergy medicine only if it is suitable for you and used as directed. Do not put buds, oils or unprescribed drops into the ear. Notice whether symptoms follow dust, pets, meals or a respiratory illness.

Arrange review when symptoms persist, recur, affect hearing, or come with ear discharge or increasing pain. Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing or swallowing, drooling, a muffled voice, facial swelling, severe dizziness or sudden hearing loss. Prompt assessment is also needed when a person becomes unusually weak or confused.

Ask whether the ear canal, nose or throat appears inflamed, whether allergy or reflux is plausible, and which treatment is safe if the eardrum cannot be seen clearly. Mention triggers and any new medicines.