A swollen ear is usually caused by an allergic reaction to earring materials, slow healing after getting a piercing, or injuries to the ear from cuts or trauma. It can also result from certain infections, such as perichondritis or swimmer’s ear (external otitis).
When the ear is inflamed, it's common for the area to become red, swollen, and painful. In some cases, there may also be a buildup of fluid or pus.
In many situations, a swollen ear can be treated with proper cleaning. However, if there is any discharge or pus, it’s important to see an ENT specialist to determine the best treatment. This may include the use of antibiotic or corticosteroid creams.
What causes ear swelling?
The most common causes of a swollen outer ear include:
1. Earring allergy
An allergy to materials used in earrings, such as nickel, is one of the main causes of a swollen ear. It can lead to redness, warmth, discharge, and pain in the affected area.
Certain hair products like shampoos, sprays, or dyes can also react with the metal in earrings and make the allergic reaction worse.
What to do: Remove the earring and clean the area thoroughly. If the swelling continues, a dermatologist may recommend using an anti-inflammatory cream. It’s also important to avoid wearing earrings made from the same material to prevent future reactions.
2. Slow healing
A swollen ear can also result from poor healing, often due to inadequate hygiene or friction caused by clothing or accessories.
What to do: Wash the area with neutral or antibacterial soap before touching it, and keep it clean and dry. In some cases, a dermatologist may prescribe medications or creams with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Proper aftercare is important for managing a swollen piercing.
3. Cuts or trauma to the ear
Injuries such as cuts, repeated trauma, or blows to the ear — often seen in contact sports — can cause blood to collect between the cartilage and skin. This may result in pain, swelling, bruising, inflammation, and sometimes a change in ear shape.
What to do: It’s best to consult an ENT specialist for proper treatment. In some cases, drainage may be necessary if there’s a hematoma, along with the use of anti-inflammatory medications.
4. Perichondritis
Perichondritis is an infection and inflammation of the tissue surrounding the ear cartilage. It may be triggered by insect bites, ear surgery, burns, or chronic illnesses.
Common symptoms include redness, pain, and swelling in the affected area.
What to do: A dermatologist or ENT doctor should be consulted to determine the best course of treatment, which may include antibiotics and/or corticosteroids.
5. Swimmer’s ear (external otitis)
Swimmer’s ear is inflammation of the outer part of the ear canal, usually caused by bacteria or fungi that thrive in moisture. It can also be triggered by improper use of cotton swabs or frequent use of earbuds or headphones.
Symptoms may include ear pain, itching, redness, swelling, and discharge.
What to do: Treatment should be guided by an ENT specialist. It may involve cleaning the ear with saline or other solutions, and in some cases, using antibiotics.
5. Perichondritis
Perichondritis is an infection of the outer ear's cartilage, often caused by injuries, insect bites, or complications after ear piercings. Symptoms include redness, pain, and a swollen ear, especially along the upper part of the ear, while the earlobe usually remains unaffected.
What to do: Treatment involves oral antibiotics such as fluoroquinolones, and in some cases, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. Prompt treatment is important to prevent cartilage damage or deformities like "cauliflower ear".
6. Otitis externa (swimmer’s ear)
Otitis externa is an infection of the ear canal, typically caused by water trapped inside the ear or minor trauma from cleaning. It may lead to a swollen outer ear, itching, pain, and discharge.
What to do: Treatment usually includes cleaning the ear canal and applying antibiotic and corticosteroid ear drops. In more severe cases, oral antibiotics may be needed.
7. Allergic contact dermatitis
Certain shampoos, earrings, headphones, or hearing aids can cause an allergic skin reaction called contact dermatitis. This condition often leads to redness, itching, flaking, and a visibly swollen ear.
What to do: Treatment involves identifying and avoiding the triggering substance. Applying corticosteroid creams or taking antihistamines can help relieve the swelling and irritation. Some patients may also benefit from maintaining a dermatitis diet to help promote recovery and reduce the frequency of flare-usp.
8. Ear piercing infection
Ear piercings, especially those placed in the cartilage, can lead to infections that cause a painful and swollen ear. Symptoms may include warmth, redness, discharge, and tenderness at the piercing site.
Read more about infected piercings and what causes them.
What to do: Clean the area with saline solution and avoid removing the earring too early. Infected piercings may require topical or oral antibiotics, especially if swelling increases or pus is present.
9. Auricular hematoma
An auricular hematoma occurs when blood collects between the ear’s cartilage and skin after blunt trauma, such as in contact sports. This causes a swollen ear that may feel soft or firm and can become deformed if not treated.
What to do: A doctor may need to drain the hematoma and apply a compression dressing. Early treatment helps prevent permanent damage like cauliflower ear.
10. Insect bites
Mosquito or insect bites can trigger an allergic reaction that results in a swollen ear, particularly in sensitive individuals. The ear may appear red, itchy, and puffy shortly after a bite.
What to do: Applying a cold compress and using antihistamines or topical corticosteroids can help relieve symptoms. In more severe reactions, medical evaluation may be needed.