What should I do if the ear cartilage is inflamed and swollen?
Nov 27, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, inflammation and swelling of an ear pit may be caused by special anatomical features that make it prone to trapping dirt and bacteria, inadequate local hygiene, early-stage acute infection, acute suppurative infection, or recurrent infections leading to sinus tract formation. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition through general care, medication, or other treatments under a doctor's guidance.
Generally, inflammation and swelling of an ear pit (preauricular sinus) may be caused by special anatomical structure that easily traps dirt and debris, inadequate local cleaning, early-stage acute infection, acute suppurative infection, or recurrent infections leading to sinus tract formation. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and follow a treatment plan under medical guidance, including general care and medication. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Special anatomical structure prone to accumulation of debris: The ear pit, also known as congenital preauricular fistula, contains a narrow blind-ended duct that can easily accumulate sebum and shed skin cells. Prolonged buildup may trigger inflammatory swelling. Avoid squeezing the fistula opening with hands. Clean the fistula opening and surrounding area daily using sterile cotton swabs dipped in normal saline, and keep the area dry and clean.
2. Inadequate local hygiene: Contaminated water from washing hair or bathing, sweat, or dust adhering over time can promote bacterial growth and lead to inflammation. Use waterproof ear protection during hair washing or showering. Afterward, gently absorb moisture around the ear with dry cotton swabs, and regularly clean the preauricular area with mild facial cleansers.
3. Early-stage acute infection of the ear pit: Bacterial invasion into the fistula causes mild inflammation, presenting as localized redness, swelling, and slight pain. Patients should follow medical advice to apply topical medications such as mupirocin ointment, fusidic acid cream, or compound polymyxin B ointment, and take oral antibiotics like cefaclor capsules to control the spread of infection.
4. Acute suppurative infection of the ear pit: As the infection progresses, an abscess forms within the fistula, causing significant redness and swelling, fluctuation upon palpation, and intensified pain. A physician must first perform incision and drainage to evacuate pus. After the procedure, follow medical instructions to take antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets, cefixime dispersible tablets, or roxithromycin capsules. Regular dressing changes are required to promote healing.
5. Recurrent infections leading to sinus tract formation: Repeated infections cause adhesions between the fistula and surrounding tissues, forming a chronic sinus tract that makes inflammation persistent and difficult to resolve. Once the infection is stabilized, surgical excision of the preauricular fistula is necessary to completely remove the fistula and affected tissue, thereby preventing recurrence at its root.
Maintain a light diet in daily life and avoid spicy or irritating foods. Do not attempt to prick or squeeze the inflamed area on your own, as this may spread the infection. Wear loose, soft clothing to minimize friction on the ear and support recovery from inflammation.
