Special features for children

With children, one should be even more careful with an abscess on the ear. Since the blood–brain barrier is different and works differently than in adults, this can have fatal consequences. The blood–brain barrier is even more permeable because a protective transporter, the P-glycoprotein, is not yet fully developed.

This can lead to the fact that certain pathogens can reach the brain more quickly. The risk of complications is higher. In addition, children often pay less attention to hygienic measures when playing and romping.

Smaller children cannot yet understand that they are not allowed to touch or “nibble” the abscess. The pathogen can spread more quickly and the abscess can heal more slowly. In addition, certain medications must not yet be taken by children.

Only 20% of all drugs are approved for children. Moreover, a surgical intervention is often a traumatic event for children and parents. However, if adequate medical support and advice is provided at an early stage, the healing of an abscess on the ear in children is usually free of complications.

Abscess of the earlobe

An abscess can develop in the context of an inflamed earring hole on the earlobe. However, it can also develop at this site for no reason. The procedure and measures are similar to those for other parts of the ear.

Of course, earrings or ear jewellery should not be worn during the period of the abscess. First, the abscess on the earlobe should be examined by a doctor. The use of home remedies in addition to other measures can be discussed with the doctor.

The basis for the effectiveness of the treatment is the observance of hygiene measures. Under no circumstances should the abscess on the earlobe be pressed around. This should not be touched at all.

If this has happened accidentally, the hands should be washed thoroughly. As long as the abscess is present on the earlobe, bathing should be avoided. The pathogen could otherwise be spread further.

The abscess should be thoroughly cleaned according to the doctor’s instructions. If it empties, a plaster should be applied. It is important that this is changed regularly and afterwards the hands should always be washed thoroughly.

Regularly, at best daily, the pillowcase and towels should be changed. Both should be washed separately at a minimum of 90°. Of course, the towel or pillowcase should not be shared with anyone else. If caps or hoods are worn, the earlobe should be protected with a patch. If fever occurs, a doctor should always be contacted immediately.

Forecast

In principle, abscesses on the ear have a good prognosis, but only if they are treated properly. With the help of the correct therapy, an abscess on the ear heals within a few days. However, a number of factors can make the healing process more protracted.

Especially in the facial area and on the ear, the abscess should not be pushed around under any circumstances, as this can cause the abscess capsule to burst and the pathogens to be transported to the brain. The blood outflow from the face and brain is closely connected and carry-over of the pathogens can lead to meningitis. In addition, an abscess on the ear can expand and spread to the cartilage and bones. An abscess of the parotid gland can also be caused. Particularly in diabetics, but also rarely in other people, an inflammation of the surrounding bone can occur, a so-called otitis externa maligna.