Ear eczema is an inflammatory skin condition affecting the skin in, on, and around the ears. It often appears as dry, discolored, and itchy patches. This article describes what ear eczema looks like and its associated symptoms.
Appearance of Ear Eczema
Ear eczema often presents with noticeable visual signs, varying in severity. The skin around and within the ear may appear discolored, ranging from red on lighter skin tones to grey, brown, or purple on darker skin tones. This discoloration indicates underlying inflammation. Dry, flaky, or scaly patches commonly develop, which can be white, silver, or yellowish in appearance. The affected area can also become swollen, leading to a thickened or bumpy texture.
In more severe instances, clear or yellowish fluid might ooze from the inflamed skin. This fluid can then dry and form crusts on the surface. Persistent dryness and inflammation may result in painful cracks or fissures, particularly behind the ear in the post-auricular fold or within the earlobe crease. Ear eczema can affect various parts of the ear, including the earlobe, the area behind the ear, the conchal bowl (the hollow area outside the ear hole), and the external auditory canal.
Other Associated Symptoms
Beyond its visible characteristics, ear eczema is frequently accompanied by distinct sensations. Intense itching is a hallmark symptom. The inflamed or cracked skin can also become painful or tender to the touch. A burning or stinging sensation may also be experienced in the areas impacted by eczema.
Sometimes, a clear or yellowish discharge may be present, which can indicate active inflammation. If a secondary infection develops, the discharge might become foul-smelling or turn a dirty yellow or green color. Swelling or significant flaking within the ear canal could potentially lead to a muffled hearing sensation. This temporary change in hearing is typically due to blockage rather than direct damage to the ear.
Understanding Different Forms
Ear eczema is not a single condition but rather a term encompassing various forms, each with unique visual characteristics or common affected areas. Atopic eczema, a common type, often appears as dry, itchy, and red patches that may weep fluid. It frequently affects the skin behind the ears and the earlobes, sometimes causing painful cracks where the earlobe meets the face.
Seborrheic eczema characteristically presents as yellowish, greasy scales on a red background. This form commonly affects areas rich in oil glands, such as the scalp, eyebrows, and the skin behind the ears, often extending into the ear canal. Contact dermatitis results from direct exposure to an irritant or allergen, causing a localized reaction. Its appearance, which can include redness, itching, and sometimes blisters, is limited to where the substance touched the ear, such as from earrings or certain hair products.
Asteatotic eczema manifests as dry, cracked, and scaly skin. This type is associated with excessive dryness and tends to occur more frequently in older individuals or in dry environmental conditions.
When Professional Help is Needed
Seeking medical attention for ear eczema becomes important under certain circumstances. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms are severe, persist despite home remedies, or worsen over time. Signs of a potential infection, such as increased pain, significant swelling, pus-like discharge, fever, or a foul odor from the ear, warrant immediate medical evaluation.
If the ear eczema begins to affect hearing or balance, professional assessment is also recommended. If over-the-counter treatments fail to provide relief, or if there is uncertainty about the diagnosis, a doctor can offer guidance. A proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional is important for effective management.