Itchy ear and sore throat

A cold can inflame the upper airways and change pressure near the ears. Allergic rhinitis may cause an itchy throat, nasal symptoms and ear pressure. Irritated ear skin, wax or water exposure can create itching separately. Reflux can irritate the throat, especially after meals or when lying down. Symptoms can overlap, so the duration and associated features are useful clues.

Sip fluids, rest your voice and avoid smoke or other known irritants. Keep the ear dry and leave its skin alone; scratching can damage the canal. Use saline for nasal irritation if appropriate. Take only medicines suitable for your age, pregnancy status and health conditions, following the label or a pharmacist’s advice. Record triggers, fever, discharge and hearing changes.

Seek prompt medical care for ear discharge, marked pain, swelling, sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness or facial weakness. Get urgent help for trouble breathing, inability to swallow liquids, drooling, rapidly increasing throat swelling or confusion. Review is sensible if symptoms do not settle or repeatedly return.

Ask whether the symptoms fit allergy, infection, reflux or an ear-canal problem, whether the ear needs examination, and which treatment is appropriate. Tell the clinician about exposures, recent illness and any medicines already tried.