The unpleasant odor sometimes found behind the ears, often described as “poop-like,” is a common concern. While alarming, it usually has understandable causes. Understanding these reasons can help in managing and preventing its recurrence.
Common Causes of the Odor
The skin behind the ears is prone to accumulation of bodily substances. Sebaceous glands produce sebum, which, along with dead skin cells, builds up in the creased space. This mixture creates an environment where bacteria thrive, leading to odor.
Sweat glands are also present, and perspiration mixes with bacteria, leading to an unpleasant scent. Environmental dirt, pollutants, and residues from hair and skin products can become trapped, contributing to buildup. Inadequate cleaning allows these substances to accumulate, making poor hygiene a primary factor in odor development.
Skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis also contribute. This inflammatory condition causes flaky, scaly, and oily patches, often affecting the area behind the ears. While seborrheic dermatitis may not always produce a strong odor, the skin flakes and excess oil can trap sweat. Associated yeast or bacterial overgrowth can then lead to a distinct smell. Ear piercings also allow odor development, as dead skin cells, sebum, and bacteria collect around the piercing site if not cleaned regularly.
Understanding the “Poop-Like” Odor
The “poop-like” or “cheesy” smell behind the ears is primarily attributed to the metabolic activity of certain bacteria. These microorganisms, flourishing in warm, moist, low-oxygen environments, break down accumulated organic matter like sebum, dead skin cells, and sweat. This decomposition releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
These VOCs include short-chain fatty acids, notably butyric acid. Butyric acid is known for its strong, unpleasant odor, often described as resembling rancid butter, vomit, or certain cheeses. It is also a component found in fecal matter. The presence of these specific compounds explains the distinct and recognizable smell. Sulfur-containing compounds produced by bacteria also contribute to strong body odors.
Warm and moist conditions behind the ear, combined with limited airflow, create an ideal breeding ground for odor-producing bacteria. This environment facilitates the rapid breakdown of skin secretions and debris, leading to the quick onset of the smell. This mixture can sometimes form a sticky, discolored paste, often called “ear cheese.”
When to Seek Professional Advice
While an odor behind the ears is often due to common causes, certain signs indicate professional medical advice is warranted. If the smell persists despite consistent daily hygiene practices, it suggests an underlying issue requiring evaluation. Persistent odor indicates simple cleaning is insufficient to address the root cause.
Associated symptoms like pain, redness, swelling, or tenderness should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. Discharge or pus from behind the ear or an ear piercing also indicates a potential infection. Skin changes like new rashes, severe flaking, bleeding, or open sores behind the ear are concerning and may indicate a worsening skin condition or more serious infection.
Systemic symptoms, including fever, swollen lymph nodes, or a general feeling of being unwell, can indicate a more widespread or serious infection. In rare cases, mastoiditis, a severe bone infection, can cause significant pain, fever, and swelling behind the ear, requiring immediate medical attention. Any new or growing lumps behind the ear, particularly if painful or draining, should also be examined by a healthcare provider to rule out cysts or other growths.
Strategies for Prevention and Management
Effective management and prevention of odor behind the ears largely depend on consistent and appropriate hygiene practices. Regularly and thoroughly washing the area behind the ears with mild soap and water is a fundamental step. Using a soft washcloth to gently scrub the skin helps remove accumulated sebum, dead skin cells, and dirt. After washing, it is important to ensure the area is completely dry to prevent moisture buildup, which can foster bacterial growth.
Good hair care also contributes to prevention. Keeping hair clean and away from the neck and ears, especially if long or oily, helps reduce residue accumulation and allows better airflow. Avoiding heavy hair products or perfumes near the ears also prevents product buildup that contributes to odor.
For ear piercings, diligent cleaning is essential to prevent odor and potential infection. Piercings should be cleaned routinely with mild soap and water or a saline solution, following professional recommendations. Cleaning earring posts and backs is also beneficial, as these areas collect debris and bacteria.
If the skin behind the ear is dry or flaky, as with mild seborrheic dermatitis, applying a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer helps maintain skin barrier integrity. Medicated shampoos with ingredients like zinc pyrithione can also help manage flaking and associated odor from seborrheic dermatitis when used on the scalp and extended behind the ears. Wearing breathable materials, especially for headwear, reduces sweat accumulation, keeping the skin dry and less hospitable to odor-causing bacteria. Avoid harsh soaps, strong perfumes, or excessive scrubbing, as these can irritate delicate skin and potentially worsen the condition.