Many people who wear glasses experience the development of uncomfortable bumps on the ear where the frame rests. While typically benign, these common bumps can cause discomfort and irritation. Understanding these bumps and how to address them is helpful for glasses wearers seeking relief.
Identifying the Bump
Bumps on the ear where glasses sit often result from consistent pressure and friction. They can manifest as pressure points, irritated skin, or calluses. A recognized condition, Acanthoma Fissuratum (also called Spectacle Frame Acanthoma), involves papules or nodules forming at contact points, typically behind the ears or on the nose bridge. This condition arises from chronic irritation caused by the glasses frame.
Several factors contribute to these bumps. Improper frame fit is a common cause; glasses that are too tight create excessive pressure, or too loose, leading to increased friction as they slide. Heavy frame materials can also exert significant pressure on the ear’s delicate cartilage. Prolonged wear without breaks and individual skin sensitivity exacerbate this issue, as continuous contact can lead to irritation and inflammation. An allergic reaction to certain frame materials, such as nickel, can also cause skin irritation and bumps.
Alleviating Discomfort
For an existing bump, several immediate steps can help alleviate pain and irritation. Temporarily adjusting your glasses to relieve pressure on the affected area can provide some relief. Regularly cleaning the area behind your ears and the glasses frame is also important, as dirt, oils, and bacteria can accumulate, contributing to irritation. Applying a warm compress to the bump can help soothe the area and promote healing by improving blood flow. Some sources suggest using over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams or anti-inflammatory ointments to reduce inflammation and itching.
It is important to recognize when professional medical or optical advice is necessary. If a bump is persistent, growing in size, increasingly painful, shows signs of infection (like redness, swelling, or pus), or does not respond to home care remedies, consulting a doctor is advised. If the discomfort is primarily due to the glasses’ fit, a visit to an optician for a professional adjustment is recommended. Opticians can assess the fit, noting pressure points and making necessary modifications to the frame.
Preventing Recurrence
Proper glasses fitting by a qualified optician is paramount to preventing ear bumps. An optician ensures the temples of the glasses are adjusted correctly, distributing weight evenly and avoiding excessive pressure on the ear. Choosing lightweight frame materials, such as titanium or certain plastics, can significantly reduce the load on the ears, enhancing comfort for prolonged wear. Frames with adjustable nose pads and soft ear hooks or temple tips can also help customize the fit and minimize pressure points.
Regular maintenance of your glasses also plays a role in prevention. Cleaning glasses daily, including the frames, nose pads, and ear pieces, helps remove skin oils, debris, and potential irritants. Taking breaks from wearing glasses, especially during long periods, can give the skin behind the ears a chance to recover from continuous pressure. Considering alternative eyewear options like contact lenses for certain activities or periods can also reduce the constant friction and pressure on the ears.