Every once in a while, my ear will become red, warm and very itchy for about a day. Afterwards, a small hardened area usually on the bottom of the earlobe will appear that is itchy (but significantly less) to the touch. It is somewhat sensitive and seems to go away after awhile, maybe a week or so. This happens every several months. I have my ears pierced, and will get a small infection every so often. Any ideas?