Cauliflower Ear Treatment

The term 'cauliflower ear' refers to an ear deformity. This ear condition occurs when one receives a blow or a series of blows to the ear. A severe blow to the ear causes the tearing of the cartilage from the skin. At times, the external ear might turn lumpy and get scarred. The pinna, which is the visible cartilaginous structure of the external ear, can also get shriveled. When the ear folds in on itself, it looks quite similar to a cauliflower, hence the name. People who are involved in contact sports such as boxing and wrestling are more susceptible to this condition. This is the reason why this condition is also referred to as the boxer's ear or the wrestler's ear. Scroll down to find out about the causes, symptoms and treatment of this condition.

Cauliflower Ear

Causes and Symptoms

Though martial artists, wrestlers, boxers, rugby players and those who indulge in other such contact sports are at an increased risk of developing this condition, at times an infected ear piercing could also result in altering the structure of the ear cartilage. When one receives multiple blows or a very hard blow, the cartilaginous structure that lends shape to the external ear can get ruptured. At times, the connection between the skin and the cartilage may get disturbed. The formation of blood clots under the skin can restrict the flow of blood to the cartilage.

When the cartilage is unable to receive the much-needed share of blood supply, oxygen and the nutrients, not only is the healing process disrupted, the shape of the cartilage might get adversely affected. Accumulation of pus or fluid in ear might be a precursor to an ear infection. The ear cartilage might fold in on itself and lend a shriveled look to the pinna. Lack of blood supply can cause the external ear to turn pale and scarring might also affect the appearance of the external ear. One may even experience severe ear pain if medical help is not sought on time. In event of the death of cartilage, the correction of this deformity might become more difficult. It is therefore important to consult a doctor for cauliflower ear treatment at the earliest.

Treatment

Severe ear injuries can cause blood to accumulate under the skin, and this causes the formation of hematoma. If left untreated, hematoma can cause an ear infection. Besides the risk of ear infection, such injuries can also damage the eardrum and cause hearing loss. This is why timely treatment is extremely important. The treatment of this condition generally involves making a small incision and draining off the fluid that has accumulated in the ear. Once the fluid, pus or blood clots are removed, the blood supply to the cartilage will be restored and this will speed up the healing process. If the injury is severe, and the cartilage has been torn away from the skin, the skin will need to be stitched back. Perichondrium and cartilage will need to be reconnected, so as to prevent a buildup of fluid.

Besides the application of a compressive dressing, antibiotics and pain killers will also be prescribed for lowering the risk of infection and providing ear pain relief. If you are unable to consult a doctor immediately, get your hands on an antibacterial solution, syringe and a compressive bandage. First of all, clean the ear with an antibacterial solution. Drain the blood with a sterilized syringe. Once the fluid has been drained, clean the ear again and apply the compressive bandage. Though this method will work well and prevent an infection, in case of severe injuries, it would be best to consult a doctor. Making any delays in getting medical help might mean ending up with a deformed ear, so make sure that you seek medical attention immediately.

Though the best option is to get yourself medically examined, you could also check out reviews regarding the effectiveness of medicated products or treatment solutions to reduce the swelling, pain and puffiness around the injured ear.