Why Is My Outer Ear Hot?

If your outer ear feels hot, that might seem to be an unusual symptom, but it is not as uncommon as you might think. There are several conditions that may cause your outer ear to feel warm.

Infection

• A hot outer ear may be the result of an ear infection. Consumer Reports tells readers of their website ConsumerReports.org that some people suffer from this condition chronically, while others have acute cases that will not return once it has subsided.

Erythromelalgia

• Erythromelalgia is an autoimmune disease that may cause ears, hands or other body parts to become hot to the touch. Erythromelalgia.org reports that it may be a secondary condition related to a more serious illness.

Eczema

• Eczema is a condition that causes a itchy, bumpy rash. It can appear anywhere on the body, including the outer ear. It is an autoimmune disease.

Allergies

• Redness and a feeling of heat could be caused by inflammation from an allergy. Scratching the ear from the itching related to an allergy can make the feeling of heat on the outer ear feel worse.

Swimmer's Ear

• When water gets trapped in the ear it causes bacteria to grow and spread. The American Academy of Otolaryngology reports that this can cause a sensation of pain and heat in the outer ear.