Psoriasis in and around the ear?
Psoriasis can occur on any part of the body, including the ears. It is a chronic skin condition that affects adults and children but is mostly diagnosed in early adulthood.
The condition is a disease of the immune system that causes an increase in the skin’s life cycle.
The condition occurs when dead skin cells accumulate to create itchy or painful dry, red and rough patches on the skin.
When you experience itching or pain around your ears and a build-up of skin scales around your ears, you may have psoriasis.
When this occurs, it can make it difficult for the sufferer to hear.
Symptoms of psoriasis of the ear?
According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, psoriasis usually occurs around the outer part of the ear.
Regardless of it where occurs, there may be a build-up of wax or scale that makes hearing difficult.
Some of the symptoms of ear psoriasis may include:
- Dry or cracked skin
- Nails with ridges or pits around them
- Temporary hearing loss
- Small or large irritated skin part that won’t heal
- Rigid or swollen joints
- The condition may extend to the face, eyes, mouth, gums, tongue, or lips.
Treatment options available for psoriasis in the ears
When you notice this condition, the first step is to consult your doctor. Then, your doctor can recommend a dermatologist to treat it for you.
Many treatment options are available in the treatment of psoriasis of the ear. Some of these options are better than others, and talking to your doctor will help you know the best option for you.
Often, the severity of your condition and symptoms will determine the treatment options for you.
Natural treatments
There’s no permanent cure for ear psoriasis, but natural treatments can help you manage the condition.
Jojoba oil and olive oil are excellent natural oils that act as antioxidants and moisturizers.
They also have vitamin-rich properties. Although, there’s a lack of extensive research on their effectiveness.
You can put these natural oils in cotton wool and use them to clean the outer part of your ears. Also, you can add a small amount of warm distilled water to your ears.
Manual extraction
If your ear canals have been affected, your doctor can remove the excess skin blocking your hearing with the use of a small tool.
Do not do this alone by inserting something into your ear to prevent damage to your eardrum and cause hearing loss.
Topical medications
Topical medications are used in mild psoriasis cases. A combination of calcipotriene and betamethasone or calcipotriol are often recommended to flatten existing lesions, reduce skin growth or provide relief to itch and pain.
Even though these medications provide relief, headaches are a common side effect.
Steroids
Doctors often prescribe steroid formulas like Lidex solutions. You use it by dripping it into your ear canal or the outer part of the ear.
It is usually used alongside other medications for improved results.
However, if left untreated, psoriasis of the ear can result in temporary hearing loss that may become quite painful and uncomfortable.
A visit to your doctor or dermatologist will help you deal with the condition and get the right treatment.