Ear Injury

What are ear injuries?

Injuries to the outer ear are usually bruises and scratches. If the ear is severely swollen, a blood clot is present which could permanently damage the shape of the ear if it is not treated by a healthcare provider.

Most bleeding from within the ear canal (the channel that carries sound down to the eardrum) is from a scratch on the lining caused by a fingernail, cotton swabs, or physician's otoscope. These scratches just bleed a few drops and then heal. Long, pointed objects (for example, a stick) carry the risk of puncturing the eardrum.

How can I take care of my child?

If your child has cuts or scrapes on the surface of the ear:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Then wash the wound vigorously with water and liquid soap for 5 minutes.
3. Rinse the wound well.
4. Apply pressure for 10 minutes with a sterile gauze to stop bleeding.
5. Apply an antibiotic ointment (OTC) 3 times per day until healed over.

Don't use alcohol on open wounds because they sting and damage normal tissue. Give acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) for pain.

When should I call my child's healthcare provider?

Call IMMEDIATELY if:

• The skin is split open and might need sutures.
• The ear is very swollen.
• A pointed object was inserted into the ear canal.
• Your child is acting very sick.

Call during office hours if:

• The injury caused an earache.
• The hearing is decreased on that side.
• You have other concerns or questions.