Finding yourself in embarrassing situations can get your ears warm, but this is not the only reason our ears get hot. So if you’re wondering, ‘Why do my ears get hot?’, keep reading to know the possible causes.
Possible Causes of Hot Ears
Here are what hot ears might mean and when you should go to the doctor:
1. Sunburn
Our minds don’t usually go to applying our sunscreen to our ears, but in truth, they need protection from the sun. Consequently, you are likely to get sunburn on your ears. It feels like a regular sunburn, with pain and burning, on any other part of your body. In addition, your ears will also:
- Become red
- Have swelling
- Blister
- Itch, with skin peeling days after the burn
Sunburns can be mild and harmless, even if they bring much discomfort. However, severe sunburn can lead to dehydration. Fever, weakness, low blood pressure, and feeling faint, along with a bad sunburn, might call for a visit to the emergency room for some acute care.
2. Allergic Reaction
Contact dermatitis or an allergic reaction is also a common culprit of burning ears. Exposure to allergens can make your ears hot. These include plants, jewelry, insect bites, personal hygiene products, topical creams, etc. Moreover, many people experience allergy symptoms to nickel-plated jewelry.
3. Cutaneous Flushing
Your ears might be getting hot as a mere emotional reaction. Blushing and red cheeks are common when someone feels embarrassed or excited. Thus, flushing can also make your ears go red and hot to touch, with a burning sensation. Other than strong emotions, your ears might be getting warm due to cutaneous flushing in the following cases:
- Drinking alcohol
- Certain prescriptions
- Physical activity
- Consuming hot or spicy foods
- Extreme temperature changes
- Rosacea
- Menopause
- High fever
- It is a normal bodily reaction that doesn’t require treatments, but you can avoid the triggers to prevent it.
4. Ear Infection
Ear infections are also possible culprits of painful and burning ears, although it depends on the condition’s nature and severity. Middle ear infections are common among many people. You’ll notice these if you have an ear infection:
- Ear Pain
- A feeling of fullness in your ear
- Muffled or diminished sound
- Nasal congestion
- Lack of appetite
- Fluid drainage from your ear
- Malaise
5. Red Ear Syndrome
Red ear syndrome is a condition that many people don’t understand well. One or both of your ears can get hot, become red, and burn in this condition. Furthermore, the attacks can occur on and off again. Plus, the burning and redness can remain for several hours. Some triggers of this condition include:
- Physical touch
- Chewing
- Physical exertion
- Moving your neck
- Hot or cold temperatures.
Anyone can experience red ear syndrome, no matter the age. In some cases, one eye on the affected side starts watering or becomes irritated. You might notice ear swelling too.
What Should I Do?
Your ears can be hot for many reasons. Nonetheless, it is better to visit the doctor if your symptoms are severe or last longer. Our team at Internal Medicine and Diagnostic Center can provide acute care and treatment for many conditions. Dial 281-252-8600 for more information and schedule an appointment.