Diagnostics

Eczema can usually be diagnosed by a doctor’s eye diagnosis.If the external auditory canal is also affected, the doctor to be examined will also perform an ear examination (otoscopy). Often the eardrum is not visible due to a swelling of the auditory canal and dislocation due to waste products during an otoscopy. If contact dermatitis is suspected in connection with an allergic reaction, dermatological allergy diagnostics can also be used. If a bacterial complication occurs, a smear is usually taken to detect the pathogen, so that a pathogen-specific antibiotic can be used for treatment. Diagnostics

Eczema of the earlobe

Especially earring wearers should consider an allergic reaction in case of an eczema on the earlobe. In particular, allergic reactions to jewelry made of nickel are caused. Sometimes creams or shampoos can also cause allergic reactions, whereby the reaction then usually affects the entire ear.

The most important measure is to remove the allergen – for example the earring. Since the earlobe can swell up considerably due to the allergy, it should be cooled. Furthermore, the treatment of the allergic reaction consists of cortisone creams or antihistamines.

Eczema of the earlobe can also occur in the case of neurodermatitis. In this case, however, the rash is often located at the lower edge of the earlobe. This is also where torn skin often occurs in neurodermatitis.

These skin cracks can be particularly painful. Neurodermatitis is also often treated with cortisone creams in the case of acute inflammation. Whether neurodermatitis or allergic reaction, the eczema on the earlobe is usually accompanied by redness and severe itching.

Eczema in the ear

An eczema in the auricle that passes into the external auditory canal is also called otitis externa. This inflammation occurs due to infection with various bacteria or fungi or due to an allergic reaction. An allergic reaction can be triggered by soaps, shampoos, hairspray or even hearing aids.

In most cases, eczema begins with an itching and, if the external auditory canal is involved, it can be accompanied by earache, for example when chewing. If the eczema occurs as part of an allergic reaction or neurodermatitis, it usually leads to reddened, dry and scaly skin in the auricle and the auditory canal. If the eczema is caused by a bacterial infection, ear drops containing antibiotics should be used. In case of fungal infections, antimycotic (anti-fungal) ear drops are given. Allergic reactions or neurodermatitis are treated with cortisone creams or antihistamines.