Ear eczema is a skin condition that causes irritation and inflammation inside or outside the ears. The term eczema is actually an umbrella term used to refer to a number of skin conditions that can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding skin lesions. Understanding the possible causes, symptoms, and treatment options for ear eczema may be necessary to gain relief.
Various types of eczema can cause rashes or skin lesions inside the external ear canal, the eardrum, or behind and around the ears. One of the most common types of eczema is allergic atopic dermatitis, an allergic skin response that tends to run in families and often appears in those suffering from other allergy-based responses, such as asthma. The allergic response or skin sensitivity is triggered by an abnormal response of the immune system to a food or other environmental substance that is considered foreign. In the ears, the condition can appear in the posterior folds of the ear.
Seborrheic dermatitis is another common form of eczema that can cause cradle cap in babies; In adults, the rash may appear on the head and appears similar to dandruff. In the ears, the condition often appears in the external ear canal. Another common variation of eczema is allergic contact dermatitis, a skin rash caused by direct skin contact with a substance to which an individual is allergic. When the condition appears in the ears, it could be related to wearing earrings that contain nickel, gold, or some other irritant. A coil piercing, one done in the upper ear, also has the potential to trigger ear eczema.
The symptoms associated with ear eczema tend to vary between people. For some, the skin lesions produce mild dryness and redness. Others, however, may develop a more serious skin condition that presents with skin loss, extreme dryness, and pain. The skin of the ear can also darken, crack and peel. In some cases, these breaks within the skin allow bacteria or fungi to invade and turn the irritating itch into an ear infection characterized by swelling, crusting, and fluid discharge.
The proper treatment of ear eczema will differ depending on how far the condition has progressed. If there is an ear infection, antibiotics or antifungal drops or steroids may be prescribed to help clear up the infection. Oral antibiotics may also be given to speed recovery and stop itching. Pain can also be controlled with over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers.
For the regular treatment of ear eczema and to prevent the development of infections, patients are generally advised to avoid scratching their ears. In most cases, constant scratching can further irritate and inflame the skin. With eczema, it is also recommended to keep the ear as dry as possible as a precaution against infection. Ear eczema sufferers can also wear earplugs when bathing or tight-fitting waterproof swimming caps when swimming so that water does not enter the ear canal. Anti-itch creams, drops, or oral medications that contain antihistamines or steroids may be available without a prescription and can be effective in treating and clearing up mild ear rashes.
Eczema that occurs in the ears can often be confused with other skin conditions, such as psoriasis. For an accurate diagnosis of ear eczema, it may be necessary to visit a dermatologist, primary care provider, or allergist. A medical professional can perform allergy tests to help determine irritants or triggers for the condition and develop a corresponding treatment plan.