Some harmful substances in our environment that we pay no attention to can cause underlying medical conditions that lead to a burning sensation that affects your ear negatively.
Ear burning sensations are a natural reaction to an inflammatory stimulus in the ear, causing increased warmth, redness, and formation of blisters on the ear; however, you can manage this sensation with proper medical attention.
Several factors can cause ear burning sensation regardless of age, race or culture, and gender, some of which include infection, hormonal change, and temperature change.
Chances are, your search for treatments for your ear-burning sensation led you to this page. This article will explain and provide you with ideas for treating ear-burning mania.
Causes of Ear Burning Sensation
The root cause of these painful sensations is environmental toxins, including pollution from pollutants, allergens, infections, and other factors.
Understanding the causes of ear burning sensation is crucial to preventing exposure and avoiding severe side effects.
Ear burning sensation factors
Some factors that can cause ear burning sensation includes:
1. Change in temperature
When your ear is exposed to freezing weather conditions during outdoor activities, blood circulation to the ear reduces and causes vasoconstriction.
When the body tries to regulate the temperature for proper blood circulation, it produces a burning sensation due to relief from the vasoconstriction.
2. Ear Infections
An ear infection is also a causative factor responsible for ear burning sensation. An ear infection is common in both adults and children regardless of age or gender and is caused by viruses or bacteria.
Middle ear infections are a common type of ear infection that causes a burning sensation with varying symptoms such as nasal congestion, loss of appetite, fever, fluid drainage from the ear, etc.
3. Sunburn
The ear is a sensitive tissue that is vulnerable when exposed to ultraviolet rays for a prolonged time. Exposure to the sun can result in a red, flashy, and crusty sunburn accompanied by a burning sensation.
Sunburn can be mild or extreme, depending on how long you have been exposed. Mild sunburn is not dangerous; however, prolonged exposure can lead to dehydration which can cause low blood pressure and fainting.
4. Allergens
Ear burning sensation is a common reaction to contact dermatitis or allergens. Certain solvents and materials such as soaps, jewelry, and insecticides can cause allergic reactions, resulting in inflammation, swelling, and tenderness of the ear.
5. Skin Infection
An infected skin around the ear, known as otitis externa, can cause a burning sensation in the ear. Common causes of otitis externa are psoriasis, bug bite, acne, and eczema.
This infection is usually accompanied by redness, swelling, itching, and inflammation of the affected area.
Symptoms of Ear Burning Sensation
Symptoms of ear burning sensation vary depending on the condition responsible for it. Many people who experience mild symptoms or discomfort may not know what’s causing them; however, seek medical advice if you share any of the symptoms below.
- Itchy ears
- Pain or tenderness
- Sticky discharge from the ear
- Redness, warmth, or swelling
- Rash
- Cough
- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Joint stiffness and pain
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Sweating
Most ear-burning discomforts are occasionally caused by heat exposure.
How to Diagnose Ear Burning Sensation
After your doctor has determined if anything is wrong, it’s time for you to see a specialist who will provide a comprehensive diagnosis to know what condition is causing your burning sensation.
Diagnosing ear burning sensation can be a straightforward exercise whereby your doctor carries out a physical examination and asks a series of questions to determine an appropriate treatment option.
Your doctor may carry out a more complex examination to rule out the possibility of an underlying medical condition.
How to Prevent and Treat Ear Burning Sensation
The mode of treatment varies for each condition, while some treatment options overlap. Your doctor must carry out a proper diagnosis to determine the underlying cause of the disease before administering treatment.
Ear burning sensation typically resolves on its own; however, you can manage it with appropriate treatment as below:
- Applying a bag of ice on the affected area
- Taking over-the-counter pills to reduce discomfort
- Avoiding exposure to allergens causing the sensation
- Keep the affected area hydrated
- Apply a warm compress to the affected ears
Final Thought
We hope you feel better after receiving information regarding healthy ways around this burning sensation.
Several underlying conditions can cause ear burning sensation, so If your symptoms don’t get better after treatment, seek medical advice before burning off all hope.