Journalism of Courage
Are you one of the few with the rare ability to scratch your itching ear through the throat? The ears, nose, and throat are part of an interconnected system, and symptoms in one area often affect the others. Indianexpress.com spoke to an expert and learnt about the connection in detail. (Source: Freepik)
Dr Govind Gourh, Consultant, ENT, Head & Neck Surgeon, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Indore, explained that the connection between the throat and ears primarily lies in the glossopharyngeal nerve and the Eustachian tube. The glossopharyngeal nerve serves parts of the throat, tongue, and middle ear, which is why irritation in the throat due to infection, post-nasal drip, or reflux that can lead to a referred itching sensation in the ear. (Source: Freepik)
The Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, helps equalize pressure. When the throat is inflamed or congested, this tube may become blocked, causing pressure or discomfort in the ear. (Source: Freepik)
He suggested keeping your throat hydrated to reduce irritation and referred ear itching. "Use saline gargles or prescribed medications to treat underlying throat conditions, and ear drops only if prescribed after a clinical examination," added Dr Gourh. (Source: Freepik)
"Do not insert earbuds, hairpins, cotton swabs, or fingers into your ear. These can damage the ear canal or eardrum," he said. Also, try to avoid over-the-counter ear drops without medical guidance, especially if you suspect an infection or perforated eardrum. (Source: Freepik)
Proper diagnosis and care are essential when dealing with overlapping throat and ear symptoms. Always seek professional help before attempting self-treatment. (Source: Freepik)
