The ear is red, swollen, thickened, enlarged, and hot to the touch.

Redness, swelling, thickening, enlargement, and warmth of the ear may result from external pressure or friction, insect bites, otitis externa, suppurative perichondritis, or contact dermatitis. Symptoms can be alleviated through cold compresses, avoiding irritants, and medication. If symptoms worsen or are accompanied by severe pain or pus discharge, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. External Pressure or Friction: Prolonged lateral sleeping that presses on the ear or frequent rubbing can impair local blood circulation, leading to tissue congestion and swelling, often with a mild burning sensation. It is recommended to avoid sleeping on the affected side, reduce ear friction, and apply a cold towel to the swollen area to relieve discomfort.

2. Insect Bites: After an insect bite on the ear, foreign proteins in the insect's saliva can trigger a localized allergic reaction, causing redness, thickening, warmth, and itching. Clean the bite area with soapy water, avoid scratching, and apply a gentle anti-itch cream to alleviate symptoms.

3. Otitis Externa: Injury from ear picking or entry of contaminated water can lead to infection. Inflammation causes redness, thickening, and swelling of the ear canal, making the entire ear appear enlarged and warm, often accompanied by ear pain. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as ofloxacin ear drops, cefaclor capsules, or Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid to improve symptoms.

4. Suppurative Perichondritis: Ear trauma or infection spreading to the perichondrium can cause suppurative inflammation, resulting in marked redness, swelling, thickening, and warmth of the ear, along with severe pain and localized bulging. Under medical supervision, medications such as cefixime dispersible tablets, amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets, and iodophor disinfectant solution may be used to relieve symptoms.

5. Contact Dermatitis: Exposure to allergens such as metal earrings or cosmetics can trigger an allergic skin reaction on the ear, causing localized redness, thickening, warmth, itching, and rashes. As directed by a physician, medications like loratadine tablets, calamine lotion, or desonide cream can help improve symptoms.

For daily care, maintain clean and dry ears, avoid behaviors such as ear picking or squeezing, choose loose and breathable earrings, stay away from allergens, follow a light diet rich in fruits and vegetables, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and support symptom recovery.