Perichondritis – Cause and Treatment

Perichondritis is an infection and inflammation of the perichondrium, the connective tissue surrounding the cartilage of the outer ear. If neglected, it can damage the cartilage permanently and lead to deformity of the ear.

One of the most common reasons I see in clinical practice is trauma to the ear caused by:
• Cotton ear bud use
• Ear piercings
• Scratching the ear canal
• Minor injuries to the outer ear

The saddest part is that despite repeated medical advice against using cotton buds for ear cleaning, many people still continue using them and end up suffering from painful ear infections, swelling, and sometimes lifelong complications.

Common symptoms include:
• Painful outer ear
• Redness and swelling
• Tenderness on touch
• Warmth around the ear
• Occasionally pus collection or discharge

How is it treated?
• Antibiotics to control the infection
• Removal of any foreign object or source of irritation
• Oral corticosteroids in selected cases to reduce inflammation
• Pain killers for symptom relief

Early treatment is important. Delayed treatment can lead to cartilage damage and permanent deformity of the ear.

Your ears are self-cleaning organs. Avoid inserting cotton buds, keys, hairpins, or any objects into the ear canal.