A lump has grown on the ear, and it hurts when touched. Why is this happening, and what should I do?

Generally, a painful lump on the ear upon touch may be related to mosquito or insect bites, excessive sebum production, folliculitis, sebaceous cysts, or furuncles in the external ear canal. It is recommended that patients take measures to prevent mosquitoes, keep the ears clean, improve daily living habits, or use medications such as mupirocin ointment, erythromycin ointment under the guidance of a physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Mosquito or insect bites: After a mosquito or insect bite, an allergic inflammatory reaction may occur on the ear, causing a lump accompanied by redness and itching around the area. Usually, no specific treatment is required for insect bites. Saline or soap water may be used to wash the area to relieve itching.

2. Excessive sebum production: Excessive sebum production from sebaceous glands on the ear may lead to clogged pores and result in painful small lumps, which may be skin-colored or light yellow. It is recommended to maintain ear cleanliness to reduce sebum production; mild facial cleansers may be used when necessary.

3. Folliculitis: Bacterial infection may cause inflammation of hair follicles on the ear, resulting in red, painful lumps that may be accompanied by pus points. Patients should promptly follow medical advice to use medications such as mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid sodium ointment, or compound polymyxin B ointment.

4. Sebaceous cyst: Blockage of the sebaceous gland duct may cause accumulation of glandular contents, forming painful lumps upon touch. The lumps may gradually enlarge and may be accompanied by redness and pain. If the cyst is large or repeatedly infected, surgical excision at a hospital is recommended. Smaller cysts may be managed by improving daily living habits.

5. External auditory canal furuncle: Bacterial infection of the ear caused by factors such as water accumulation in the ear canal or trauma to the ear canal may lead to furuncles in the external ear canal, causing painful small lumps upon touch. Patients should use medications such as mupirocin ointment, erythromycin ointment, or cephalexin capsules as advised by a physician to aid recovery. If pus forms, incision and drainage may be required.

In daily life, it is important to develop good living habits, maintain personal hygiene, and appropriately clean the ears. Engaging in moderate exercise, such as jogging or hiking, may also benefit overall health.