How to Get Rid of Cauliflower Ear
Cauliflower ear is a deformity of the ear. It is an acquired condition, often as a result of a sports injury. It occurs when the ear is forcefully struck, often multiple times. This can cause a blood clot to form under the skin. The condition can develop when the skin is separated from the cartilage, which disrupts blood flow and may cause cartilage to die. If the cartilage dies, the ear may look misshapen and shriveled. Boxers and wrestlers are especially prone to developing this injury.Things You'll Need
- Icepack
- Antibiotics
- Compression dressing
Instructions
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Apply an icepack to the injured ear as soon as possible after it is injured. The pressure and cold will help prevent some swelling.
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See a doctor as soon as possible. Sustaining a permanent deformity from this injury is less likely if you get medical help promptly. The doctor will make an incision in the hematoma in order to suction out the accumulated blood.
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Inform your doctor if you have allergies to any medications. He will likely prescribe antibiotics to prevent an infection or to treat an existing infection of the ear. Finish taking all of the medication prescribed to you; do not cease taking antibiotics just because the injury is healing.
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Expect to have a compression dressing on the injured ear for three to seven days following the successful drainage. This prevents the hematoma from re-forming. It also allows for proper blood flow, which prevents the cartilage from dying. Follow your doctor's exact instructions for taking care of the compression dressing.
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Discuss your surgical options with a doctor if your cauliflower ear is an old injury, or if it is a severe, recent injury. According to Merck, cauliflower ear is sometimes associated with a laceration that completely penetrates through the ear. This requires surgery. Surgery to treat cauliflower ear involves making an incision and draining any accumulated fluid. The skin is stitched back together, however the cartilage is not.
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