Psoriasis in the ear - featured image

Psoriasis In The Ear: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Updated November 30, 2023
 
Did you hear? Psoriasis affects more than just your skin. It can also affect your ears!
 
Psoriasis is a skin disease characterized by scaly patches, inflammation, itchiness, and other symptoms of the skin. Psoriasis can cause symptoms on the outer ear's skin. These include itching, pain, and redness. It can also affect the inner ear, inside the ear canal. This may lead to temporary hearing loss.
 
Many people may not know about the connection between psoriasis and hearing loss. Understanding the causes of psoriasis of the ears is crucial. Knowing the symptoms is also key. You should learn about the treatment options available. And, it's important to be aware of ways to prevent it.

In this article, we'll do just that. So lend me your ears, and let's get started!

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What Is Psoriasis, Exactly?

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin. The immune system incorrectly targets skin cells. This causes new skin cells to grow too quickly. This causes thick, scaly patches on the skin's surface, which can be red, itchy, and painful. Although psoriasis can occur at any age, it usually appears in early adulthood.

Psoriasis is a buildup of skin cells into scaly patches

Psoriasis is a buildup of dead skin cells into scaly patches around the affected areas of the body.
People who experience symptoms of psoriasis may have a family history of the condition. Other factors that may increase the risk of developing psoriasis include smoking, stress, infections, and certain medications.
 
However, it is not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another. There is no cure for psoriasis. However, treatments exist. These treatments help control symptoms. They also improve quality of life. These may include topical creams, oral medications, light therapy, and lifestyle modifications.

Psoriasis can affect various body parts, including the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. Facial psoriasis often appears near your eyebrows and around your eyes. It can also affect the skin between your nose and mouth. You might find it on your upper forehead and along your hairline as well. And, of course, as we will learn more about, psoriasis can affect the ears, also.

Symptoms of Ear Psoriasis:

Psoriasis in the ear may be hard to diagnose. It can look like other skin or ear problems. This is especially true if it affects the eardrum area, which is a part of the inner ear less visible than the outer ear. It is often confused with eczema, though they are not the same.


Psoriasis behind the ear

However, some symptoms can help determine if you have psoriasis around your ear. These symptoms include:

  • Red, scaly patches on the skin in and around the ear canal.
  • Buildup of skin that is dry, and flaky on the ear and behind the ear.
  • Itching or burning sensations or lesions in the ear.
  • Irritation accompanied by itch.
  • Cracking or bleeding skin in the ear.
  • A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear.
  • Plaque buildup inside the ear canal can also be a sign of psoriasis in the ear.
  • Hearing loss.
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should see a dermatologist. You can also visit an ear, nose, and throat doctor. They can concretely identify which type of psoriasis you have so you can receive the best treatment.
Some types of psoriasis can cause scaling in and around the ear, including scalp psoriasis.

 The National Psoriasis Foundation offers information on various psoriasis types. This includes forms that can impact the skin of your ears.

Causes of Psoriasis in the Ear:

The exact cause of psoriasis in the ears is unknown. Researchers believe that psoriasis is caused by both genetic and environmental factors. People with a family history of psoriasis are more likely to develop the condition. Environmental factors such as stress, infections, and certain medications can also trigger psoriasis ear.

Stress is a contributing factor to ear psoriasis
Genetic factors may contribute to the chance of developing psoriasis in areas like the scalp, elbows, or ears. These genetic factors include changes in the immune system and skin cells. It is estimated that up to 70% of psoriasis cases are attributed to genetic factors.

Several genes are linked to psoriasis. This includes the HLA genes, important for the immune system. HLA genes help the immune system recognize foreign substances like bacteria and viruses. Specific HLA genes are more prevalent in people with psoriasis. These genes trigger the immune system to attack healthy skin cells, leading to psoriasis symptoms.

Other genes associated with psoriasis regulate inflammation, skin cell growth and differentiation, and skin barrier formation. Mutations in certain genes may cause the skin to produce too many cells. These excess cells pile up on the surface of the skin, creating flaky patches. If this condition, known as psoriasis, affects the ears, it can block the ear canal with skin cells. This blockage can result in temporary hearing difficulties.

Ear psoriasis can cause blockages in the ears causing hearing loss

Prevention of Psoriasis in and around the Ear:

You can take several steps to prevent psoriasis on all body parts, including the ears. These steps include:

Avoiding triggers:

Identify and avoid triggers that can worsen or cause psoriasis flare-ups. There are several triggers to be aware of. Stress can set them off. So can smoking and drinking alcohol. Some medications might do it, too. Infections are another potential cause. If you injure your skin, that might trigger it. Harsh weather, especially when it's cold and dry, can also be a factor. And finally, allergens are common triggers for the flare-up of psoriasis on the skin.

Keeping the ear clean and dry:

Moisture can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms. It is crucial to keep the ear clean and dry to prevent flare-ups.

Keep Your Ears Dry To Help Prevent Psoriasis

Dry your ears thoroughly after showering, swimming, or other water contact activity. You can use a hair dryer on a low setting to dry the ears gently.
Avoid using earplugs or headphones for extended periods as they can trap moisture in the ear.
 
If you have excessive earwax buildup, consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend using ear drops to soften or remove the wax safely from inside of your ears.

Using gentle products:

Avoid using harsh soaps or shampoos that can irritate the skin. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free products instead. People with sensitive or dry skin need to pay extra attention. This also applies to those with skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis. Harsh soaps and shampoos can strip the skin of natural oils, causing irritation, itching, and redness. Fragrances can also be a common trigger for skin irritation and allergic reactions.

Use gentle cleansing products
Look for products specifically designed for sensitive skin or those labeled as "gentle" or "mild." If you need help deciding which products to use, consult a dermatologist or a skincare professional for recommendations.

Protecting the ear:

Protect your ear from cold and wind by wearing a hat or earmuffs. Put on a hat or earmuffs to keep your ears warm and safe from the wind. Our ears can quickly become numb when the temperature drops, and cold wind can worsen the situation.

Use ear muffs to protect your ears from the cold to prevent psoriasis.

A warm and comfortable hat or earmuffs can provide insulation and help maintain the temperature inside your ears. Choosing comfortable and well-fitted headwear is essential to avoid discomfort or irritation.

Monitoring for signs of psoriatic arthritis:

Arthritis can develop in people with skin conditions, so watching for joint pain or swelling is essential. Psoriatic arthritis is a specific type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs in some people with psoriasis. The National Psoriasis Foundation estimates that as many as 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis.

People with psoriatic arthritis experience joint pain and swelling. They also have stiffness and less movement in their joints, which is common in other kinds of arthritis. However, psoriatic arthritis can also cause inflammation in other body areas, such as the eyes, skin, and nails.

Don't Stick Anything in Your Ear Canal

Don't use cotton swabs to clean your ears. They can push the earwax deeper, causing blockages and infections. In fact, try not to stick anything into your ear.

Avoid sticking anything in your ears

 

Clean your ears gently. Use ear drops to treat wax buildup. Apply topical creams or ointments for itching. If you're having persistent problems, seek medical advice from a doctor.

Treatment of Psoriasis Ear:

There are various options available to ease symptoms of psoriasis of the ear. The best treatment for you will depend on the severity of your ear psoriasis symptoms. Some common treatments for psoriasis ear include:

Topical creams:

Topical creams or ointments that contain corticosteroids are a common course of treatment many take. These medications reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. You can buy them over-the-counter or with a prescription. However, you should not use topical steroids like hydrocortisone and cortisol for a long time. 

Topical creams are often used to treat psoriasis

However, topical steroids like hydrocortisone, cortisol, and similar medications are not suitable for long-term use due to some serious side effects. With prolonged use, severe skin damage can occur, such as skin thinning and wrinkling. Topical steroid withdrawal can also happen.

They are potentially dangerous, and topical steroids take a long time to work. It can be several days or even weeks of regular use before your ears may feel any relief.

Dermeleve®:

Instead of treating psoriasis using dangerous corticosteroids, Dermeleve® is a safe and effective alternative. 

This topical cream contains natural ingredients that relieve the itchiness associated with psoriasis lesions. It also helps moisturize the skin, preventing it from becoming dry or cracked.

Dermeleve® is a fast-acting, long-lasting, steroid-free safe alternative to topical steroids.

Dermeleve® is safe for long-term use to manage flare-ups. It doesn't have unwanted side effects like skin thinning, which corticosteroids can cause. Its special formula quickly and effectively calms severe psoriasis itching.
 
It's also gentle enough for daily use and can be used on any body part affected by psoriasis. With Dermeleve®, you can get long-term relief from psoriasis without the risks of using corticosteroids.

Try Dermeleve® today and experience the results yourself!

Ear drops:

If you have psoriasis in your ear that is painful or itchy, your doctor can give you ear drops. These drops may have corticosteroids or antibiotics in them. These drops can help to reduce swelling and irritation and can also help to prevent infection.

Ear drops can help with ear psoriasis

When you first use some ear drops, they might sting for a short time. This feeling usually stops after a few minutes. It is essential that you follow the instructions of your doctor carefully when using any ear drops.

Systemic medications:

In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe systemic medications such as methotrexate or cyclosporine. These medications work by suppressing the immune system to reduce inflammation. They can work well but may cause side effects. You should use them only on the specific body part they're meant for. Also, your doctor needs to watch their effects closely.

Light therapy:

Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of light. This can help reduce inflammation and control symptoms. You can get controlled doses of ultraviolet light in different ways: at a doctor's office, using special equipment at home, or by being out in natural sunlight.

Phototherapy can help with psoriasis ear

Ultraviolet light waves are used in this therapy to calm an overactive immune system. They do this by breaking down inflammatory cytokines, which are molecules that cause inflammation. This results in less inflammation and fewer symptoms.
 

Be careful. Using this can cause skin burns. It can also lead to eye problems. Additionally, it may make you more sensitive to sunlight. Talk to your doctor about phototherapy if it is an option for you.

Other treatments:

Your doctor might suggest changes in your lifestyle to help with your ear psoriasis. This could include trying acupuncture or yoga. They may also teach you stress management techniques. Additionally, they could recommend other treatments that do not involve medication.
 

These treatments can be beneficial for managing inflammation and other symptoms associated with autoimmune diseases. While these treatments may not cure the condition, they can help you gain better control over your symptoms.

Yoga is an alternative treatment to help manage and prevent psoriasis

These types of treatments are often an excellent complement to traditional medical therapies. Talk to your doctor about which treatment options might be best for you, depending on your situation.

Remember to take charge of your health. Work closely with your doctor. Together, find the treatments that work best for you.

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Wrap Up

Psoriasis in the ear can be a challenging and uncomfortable condition to deal with. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, it can be managed effectively. Knowing the symptoms, understanding the causes, and taking steps to prevent this condition are all essential.

Ear psoriasis

Psoriasis symptoms in the ear can differ. They can be mild or severe. This depends on if the psoriasis affects sensitive parts of the ear.

These symptoms include itchiness, scaling, redness, and sometimes even pain. It is essential to seek medical advice if you experience any of these symptoms. 

There are several treatment options available to manage Psoriasis in the ear, tough they also occur. These include topical treatments, oral medications, light therapy, and more. Your doctor will recommend the best course of treatment based on your specific needs. 

Prevention is key when it comes to managing Psoriasis in the ear. To prevent this condition, it's important to avoid triggers. These include stress, drinking too much alcohol, and taking certain medications.

In the meantime, use Dermeleve® for fast itch relief from your ear Psoriasis.

If you or someone you know has Psoriasis in the ear, get medical help. A correct diagnosis and treatment can control this condition. This way, one can live comfortably.

Want to learn more about this subject? Check out this video on our YouTube channel!

FAQs

Q: What is Psoriasis In The Ear?

A: Psoriasis in the ear is a skin condition. It affects the outside of the ear and the ear canal. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes red, itchy, and scaly patches on the skin.

 

Q: What are the symptoms of Psoriasis In The Ear?

A: People with psoriasis in the ear might feel itchy and notice red, scaly skin that flakes off. Their ears might hurt or feel uncomfortable. Sometimes, they may also have trouble hearing.

 

Q: Can Psoriasis In The Ear cause hearing loss?

A: Yes, in some cases, Psoriasis In The Ear can lead to hearing loss. Psoriasis can cause inflammation and flaking of the skin in the ear canal. This can block the canal or harm it. As a result, a person might experience temporary or even permanent hearing loss.

 

Q: How can I know if I have Psoriasis In The Ear?

A: If you have symptoms like itching, redness, scaling, or pain in your ear, you should see a healthcare professional. They will check your ear to see if you have Psoriasis In The Ear or another ear problem.

 

Q: What triggers Psoriasis In The Ear?

A: The exact cause of psoriasis in the ear is not fully understood. Hoever, it is known that certain factors can trigger flare-ups. These triggers may include stress, infections, injuries to the ear, cold weather, smoking, and certain medications.

 

Q: How is Psoriasis In The Ear treated?

A: If you have Psoriasis in your ear, you might use several treatments. These can be cream-based steroids applied directly to the skin. If you have a fungal infection too, you might need antifungal medication. Keeping the area moist with special lotions is also helpful. Additionally, ear drops might be prescribed. In severe cases, systemic medications or light therapy may be recommended.

 

Q: Can Psoriasis In The Ear be prevented?

A: You can't fully prevent Psoriasis In The Ear. However, you can control and lessen outbreaks. Avoid things that trigger your psoriasis. Keep your ears clean and practice good ear care. Make sure to keep your ears dry. Use moisturizing ear drops if your healthcare provider advises it.

 

Q: Is Psoriasis In The Ear common in people with psoriasis?

A: Psoriasis In The Ear is relatively uncommon compared to psoriasis affecting other parts of the body. However, it is possible for people with psoriasis to develop psoriasis in their ears.

 

Q: What are the different types of psoriasis that can affect the ear?

A: There are several types of psoriasis that may affect the ear. These include:
  • Plaque psoriasis, which is the most common form.
  • Guttate psoriasis, which appears as small, dot-like spots.
  • Inverse psoriasis, which causes smooth patches in skin folds.
  • Pustular psoriasis, characterized by pus-filled blisters.
  • Erythrodermic psoriasis, a severe form causing widespread redness.

Q: Are there any home remedies for Psoriasis In The Ear?

A: There aren't any confirmed home cures for Psoriasis In The Ear. However, some strategies might help. People may find relief with warm compresses applied to the area. Managing stress through various techniques can also be beneficial. It's important to stay away from irritants that can make the condition worse. Keeping your skin healthy overall may also help ease the symptoms.
 
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