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Overview
Blood collects under the skin of the ear.
Without draining, it can harden.
When to get medical care
Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todaySwollen ear after injury.
See a doctor soonEar shape changes.
Causes
Caused by ear trauma.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause swollen outer ear after a hit. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- Cauliflower ear (blood under the ear skin)Often needs care today
A hit to the outer ear can trap blood under the skin, making it swollen and puffy.
What you can do at home
- Ice it.
Medicines
Drainage and a pressure dressing.
At the doctor
Diagnosed by exam.
Questions you may be asked
- Injury
The exam
An ear exam.
Tests
- None
Prevention
Protect ears.
- Wear headgear in sports
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.