Rash Behind Ears

Skin infections are not rare and new. There is no panic alarm in most cases. Acne, swelling and other skin disorders keep taking their rounds with the smallest of exposure. How many of us have experienced a rash behind ears? This skin eruption is often a complaint, seldom with any visible causes, that leaves many in thought and curiosity. A rash is not age or gender biased, at every stage there may be a particular type of infection active that is most likely to attack. Rashes behind ears are not visible easily, but once on the checklist, it will surely create some pain and panic. A rash may cause the skin to be swollen, inflamed, itchy, bumpy with granular texture, or even flaky. It can also change the color or texture of the skin. It is often caused by exposure to virus or due to any infection. There may be internal causes too for skin rashes that itch and burn. An ear rash can be present anywhere surrounding the ear, in the internal or the external region. Let us view some facts about the causes, symptoms and more on this skin disorder below.

Symptoms

A rash that affects the ear region, will seldom be different than a regular skin rash. There may be spots, grainy bumps or even blisters. Sometimes they may be filled with fluid also, causing itching and irritation accompanied with pain. The color of the skin behind the ear will be more pink and reddish, and the area of the rash can also be inflamed. There may be small pimple-like formations, sometimes these may grow in number. A rash combined with any other illnesses like fever, vomiting, etc. apart from skin issues, hint that there may be an underlying complication.

Causes and Treatment

The most common causes for rash in the ear area have been compiled below. Moist areas are usually favorable for rashes and infections to grow. For most people this may be the major cause of rash.

Ear Rash Causes and Treatment
Causes	Description	Treatment
Eczema	It is a chronic skin condition, causing itching, redness and inflammation.	Treatment includes oral and topical medicines, the doctor may advise certain precautions and guidelines for lifestyle changes too.
Fungal infections	Usually caused due to exposure to bacteria and virus, this causes redness, itching and scaling of the skin.	Good hygiene and using antibacterial and antifungal ointments can help to deal with infections, however one must see a doctor.
Heat Rash	It is associated with infections that are caused due to trapping of sweat and moisture, that causes itchy ear rashes, and red, flaky, and bumpy skin.	The best treatment is to keep the skin dry. A mild rash needs home treatment like keeping the skin hydrated, using prickly heat powders, etc. More severe rashes need medical help.
Dermatitis	It may be atopic or contact dermatitis. Basically caused due to allergy to substances or irritation of certain chemicals, it leads to itching, inflammation and redness too.	Treatment will focus on minimizing the symptoms. Home treatments like ice packs, using humidifiers, keeping the skin moisturized and avoiding harsh soaps, perfumes, over scrubbing skin and also wearing light and soft clothes are advised. The doctor may prescribe topical and oral medicines, antibiotics and other treatments like phototherapy depending on each case.
Psoriasis	It causes redness, irritation and itching of the skin along with flaky and patchy skin that has silver and white scale-like formations on the skin layer.	Treatment is focused to prevent any further infections. Medicines that can be applied topically like creams and ointments are prescribed along with oral pills and injections. In certain cases phototherapy can also be prescribed.
Bacterial meningitis	It is a bacterial infection and needs immediate treatment. A reddish to purple rash is a symptom of bacterial meningitis.	It needs immediate treatment as it may develop further complications and risks. The best treatment is to avoid this infection with vaccines. Others like antibiotics, and symptoms and pain-reducing drugs like sedatives are also advised.
Measles	It is a viral infection. A rash behind ears and on the forehead along with fever is a sign of measles. The rash appears like a patch of tiny flat pink spots.	It needs medical attention, and treatment is focused to relieve symptoms like fever and pain. Antibiotics may be prescribed typically for ear infections. Home treatments like salt water gargle, staying hydrated, cold compress, and adequate rest can also be prescribed.
Chickenpox	It is a contagious infection that causes itchy blisters, usually starting from the face, combined with fever, cough and headache.	Treatment includes topical medicines and vaccination. Using antiviral medicines along with home care remedies like avoiding scratching the sores, increasing fluid intake, using anti-itch lotions and maintaining good hygiene are some options that help in treating chickenpox.
Dry skin	Skin tends to be dry and itchy, which is usually caused due to many underlying conditions. The skin loses its moisture and causes scaling and itching.	Medical advice will determine the exact cause and hence the treatment. Home remedies include keeping the skin moisturized, drinking plenty of water, using over the counter creams and lotions, etc.
Chronic otitis media (middle ear infection)	It is caused due to growth of bacteria and viruses on the fluid when it builds up in the middle of the ear. Rash may be a sign along with drainage of pus, fever and chills, ear pain and fullness.	Depending on the symptoms oral medications and other treatments are advised. Typically using antibiotics to reduce pain and fever will be advised. Surgery to drain the excess fluid may also be suggested by the doctor. Home care like good rest and staying hydrated helps this infection to heal better.
Otis externa or swimmers ear	It is an inflammation of the ear canal and outer ear. A rash behind ear may be one sign along with itching.	Treatment includes antibiotics and antifungal medicines and drops, and hot compresses.
Folliculitis	It is basically an infection of the hair follicle on the skin. It's an itchy rash on the skin accompanied with blisters, redness and irritation.	Depending on the severity of the infection, the treatment may include antibiotics and antifungal medicines

Apart from the above mentioned causes, there are other causes too that can be a reason of ear rashes. These include, HIV/AIDS, melanoma (skin cancer), erythema nodosum (a type of allergic skin condition), etc. It is wise to first visit a doctor and get the rash diagnosed. The above are only the possible causes, and can be confirmed only after examination by a medical expert. Test and diagnosis can reveal the exact underlying cause.

A moderate rash behind the ears is mostly caused due to an infection, so a good personal hygiene routine and care can deal with such rashes. For the more complicated ones, a doctor's advice is mandatory.