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At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
What Causes Dry Scaly Bumps on the Tops of the Ears?
It can be frustrated to have dry, scaly bumps on your ears and not understand what's causing this condition. A variety of factors can cause these symptoms and they don't always happen on the ears alone. Making an appointment with a dermatologist will be the quickest way to determine the cause of the problem so you can begin a treatment regimen.
Atopic Eczema
Atopic eczema is most commonly found in children and is considered the most severe form of eczema. According to the National Eczema Association, it's estimated that 65 percent of patients are diagnosed with atopic eczema during their first year and 90 percent are diagnosed before the age of 5. A person with this diagnosis may have small bumps with scaly, itchy, red and swollen areas of the skin.
Contact Dermatitis
How to Protect Skin in the Sun Without Sunscreen
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According to the National Eczema Association, contact dermatitis is caused by an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can vary depending on the severity of the allergy. Some can be life threatening while others may develop into hives, which are a common reaction. Hives appear as a rash-like bumps found on certain areas of the skin, or all over the body. Hives itch and sometimes sting.
- According to the National Eczema Association, contact dermatitis is caused by an allergic reaction.
- Hives appear as a rash-like bumps found on certain areas of the skin, or all over the body.
Epidermal Cysts
Epidermal cysts are small, painless bumps that are moveable under the skin. If you have an epidermal cyst, see a dermatologist to have it removed. If you try to remove the cyst yourself, you risk infection resulting in the area becoming red, swollen, and tender. There is also a chance of fluid coming out that is a grayish white color and has a foul odor.
- Epidermal cysts are small, painless bumps that are moveable under the skin.
- If you try to remove the cyst yourself, you risk infection resulting in the area becoming red, swollen, and tender.
Insect Bites
Small Red Bumps on the Wrist
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Bumps from insect bites are caused by venom or some other form of toxin being injected into the skin. Normally, an insect bite will have mild symptoms, but for people who suffer allergies from bug bites, the body's reaction can be more severe. The most common reaction to an insect bite is red bumps that itch. Sometimes the red bumps will scab over as they heal.
- Bumps from insect bites are caused by venom or some other form of toxin being injected into the skin.
- Normally, an insect bite will have mild symptoms, but for people who suffer allergies from bug bites, the body's reaction can be more severe.
Poison Ivy, Oak or Sumac
According to the Poison Ivy, Oak, & Sumac Information Center, the reaction to poison ivy, oak or sumac is caused by urushiol oil, which is the most common allergy in the United States 2. Half of the population will have an allergic reaction if they come in direct contact of urushiol oil.
To avoid contact with urushiol oil, remember there are three leaves per cluster on poison ivy and oak. There are seven to thirteen leaves per cluster on sumac. If you find yourself standing in an area of these plants, be prepared for the symptoms which include redness, itching, swelling and blisters.
- According to the Poison Ivy, Oak, & Sumac Information Center, the reaction to poison ivy, oak or sumac is caused by urushiol oil, which is the most common allergy in the United States 2.
- To avoid contact with urushiol oil, remember there are three leaves per cluster on poison ivy and oak.
Sunburn
Wearing a sunblock with an SPF of 30 is a quick and easy way to prevent sunburn, but still, people all over the world suffer yearly. The severity of sunburn depends on the amount of exposure, as well as they type of skin a person has. A person with fair skin will burn easier than a person with a naturally dark complexion. According to Dr. Greene's sunburn guide, sunburns peak within 24 hours of exposure 3. The symptoms include redness, possible blistering, and dryness. Sunburns often peel to remove the top layer of skin within a week.
- Wearing a sunblock with an SPF of 30 is a quick and easy way to prevent sunburn, but still, people all over the world suffer yearly.
- Sunburns often peel to remove the top layer of skin within a week.
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References
- Mayo Clinic:Sebaceous Cysts
- Poison Ivy, Oak, & Sumac Information Center:
- Dr. Greene: Sunburn
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Poisonous plants, Updated June 1, 2018.
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. Poison ivy, oak, and sumac: how to treat the rash.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Outsmarting poison ivy and other poisonous plants. Updated August 6, 2016.
- Cleveland Clinic. Poison ivy, oak, & sumac. Updated December 20, 2018.
- Pet Poison Helpline. Poison ivy.
- Harvard Health Publishing. Is poison ivy contagious? Updated July 2018.
Writer Bio
Melissa McNamara is a certified personal trainer who holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and communication studies from the University of Iowa. She writes for various health and fitness publications while working toward a Bachelor of Science in nursing.