Red itchy ears but no pain?

[MegBusset]

DS1 has had very red inflamed ears for a few days now. He doesn't have any pain or other symptoms but they are obviously very itchy. The redness is on both ears and seems to be both inside and on the earlobe. He has eczema so this could be a cause I suppose, but just wondering what else could cause it? Presumably if it was an ear infection he would be in pain?

Allergic reaction to something?

I don't know what it could be to, though - he hasn't worn a new hat or anything! He has some food allergies but they cause hives and vomiting.

You can get chilblains on ears, I think.

I know it's not the same, but my dog gets seasonal allergies and one of the symptoms is red, itchy ears - but only on the external flaps not inside the ear canal.
I get hay fever which often gives me an itch deep in my ears - how old is your son - are his ears red from rubbing them?

He's 5, and yes I think a lot of the redness has come from itching. It's possible he might have hay fever although he's not had it before. I think I'll have to make a GP appt and see what they reckon.