From the Guidelines
A burning sensation in the ears is most likely caused by an infection, such as otitis externa, and should be treated with antibiotic ear drops like ciprofloxacin or polymyxin B/neomycin/hydrocortisone combinations, used 3-4 drops 2-3 times daily for 7-10 days, as recommended by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Causes of Burning Sensation in Ears
The causes of a burning sensation in the ears can be varied, including:
- Infections, such as otitis externa or "swimmer's ear"
- Allergic reactions, such as contact dermatitis resulting from nickel exposure 1
- Dermatological conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis
- Nerve-related issues, such as trigeminal neuralgia
- Physical trauma, such as lacerations or puncture wounds
Treatment of Burning Sensation in Ears
Treatment of a burning sensation in the ears depends on the underlying cause.
- For infections, antibiotic ear drops like ciprofloxacin or polymyxin B/neomycin/hydrocortisone combinations are typically prescribed, used 3-4 drops 2-3 times daily for 7-10 days 1.
- For allergic reactions, avoiding allergens and using antihistamines like cetirizine (10mg daily) or fexofenadine (180mg daily) can help.
- Dermatological conditions may require topical corticosteroids like hydrocortisone 1% cream applied thinly twice daily.
- For nerve-related burning, medications like gabapentin (starting at 300mg daily and gradually increasing) or carbamazepine (starting at 100mg twice daily) might be prescribed.
- Simple home remedies include applying a warm or cool compress to the ear for 15-20 minutes and over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (500mg every 6 hours as needed) or ibuprofen (400mg every 6-8 hours with food) 1.
Important Considerations
If the burning sensation persists beyond a few days, is accompanied by discharge, hearing loss, or severe pain, medical attention should be sought promptly as these could indicate a more serious condition requiring specific treatment 1. It is also important to note that auricular perichondritis and perichondrial abscess can occur, especially in the first month after piercing, and can be treated with fluoroquinolone antibiotic treatment, such as ciprofloxacin or levofloxacin 1. In cases where an abscess is present, surgical incision and drainage may be necessary 1.
From the Research
Causes of Burning Sensation in the Ears
- The exact cause of a burning sensation in the ears can vary, but it is often associated with ear infections, such as acute otitis media (AOM) 2, 3.
- AOM is a common childhood infectious disease characterized by pain and pressure behind the eardrum, which can lead to a burning sensation in the ears.
- Other possible causes of a burning sensation in the ears include otitis externa, a condition where the outer ear canal becomes inflamed, and certain medications or environmental factors.
Treatment of Burning Sensation in the Ears
- The treatment of a burning sensation in the ears depends on the underlying cause, but it often involves the use of analgesics, such as paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) 2, 3.
- For AOM, antibiotics may be prescribed in some cases, but the use of analgesics is generally considered the cornerstone of management 2, 3.
- Topical antibiotics or ear drops may be used to treat otitis externa, and in some cases, oral antibiotics may be prescribed 4, 5.
- It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of a burning sensation in the ears.
Effectiveness of Different Treatments
- Studies have shown that paracetamol and ibuprofen can be effective in relieving pain associated with AOM, but the evidence is limited, and further research is needed to determine the most effective treatment 2, 3.
- Azithromycin has been shown to be comparable to amoxicillin/clavulanate in treating AOM, and it may be a safer and more tolerable option 4.
- The effectiveness of different antibiotics in treating otitis externa is still a topic of debate, and more research is needed to determine the best course of treatment 5, 6.