Why wrestler ear

Since cauliflower ear is permanent once the fluid in the ear hardens, time is really of the essence once the ear experiences trauma. Quick action before the ear fills will prevent the need to perform any sort of operation and we will discuss a proven way to accomplish this in a moment. If the ear is allowed to fill with fluid, the fluid must be removed before it sets or there is no way to repair the deformity except for costly reconstructive surgery.

There are two main procedures doctors may take to remove the fluid from a damaged ear. Each method has pros and cons. He or she may need to reconnect tissues using stitches and apply a special bandage to put pressure on the area. This pressure dressing may need to stay in place for several days to a week. The site will require monitoring for signs of infection or signs that additional treatment may be needed.

Antibiotics may also be prescribed. This is the most common version of treatment, often seen on the internet in videos of coaches and teammates draining the ears. The problem with the incision is that it is very painful, leaves a large scar, and the athlete is unable to practice or compete for weeks at a time.

The benefit is that the stitches keep the ear from refilling before the athlete returns to the mats. The problem with draining via a needle or syringe is that it still leaves scar tissue though less than a scalpel which makes it easier for recurrence in the future, and without the stitches to keep the ear knit together, the ear simply refills with fluid again and again.

Since many drain their ears on their own, there is also the danger of infection. Also, neither of these methods do anything long term. The strategies discussed above may work to keep the ears shape in the moment, but the second they return to the mat they are in danger of a reoccurrence of cauliflower ear, starting the process all over again.

The basic idea is that the athlete makes a mold of their ear, preferably before their ear is damaged. If fluid is not allowed to build up in the ear, then cauliflower ear cannot develop.

Another way cauliflower ear can happen is when the ear's skin is stripped away from the cartilage , the flexible material that gives a normal ear its shape. This cartilage needs oxygen and nutrients carried by the flow of blood.

A tear, severe bruise , or blood clot can block the blood flow. If that happens, the cartilage can die. Without cartilage to keep its firm, rounded shape, the ear shrivels a bit and the cauliflower look begins to appear. Once this happens, the person's ear may look like this permanently. You may be wondering if there's any way to prevent cauliflower ear. Wearing the right headgear when playing sports — especially contact sports — is a must. Ask your doctor when you can resume normal activities.

Cauliflower ear is permanent, but in some cases, you may be able to reverse the appearance using corrective surgery, known as otoplasty. During the surgery, your doctor makes a cut behind your ear to expose the cartilage.

Your doctor then either removes some of the cartilage or uses stitches to reshape your ear. You may need general anesthetic for the surgery, but in some cases, a local anesthetic can be used. You should be able to resume physical activities within six weeks, though your doctor may recommend waiting longer. The best prevention for cauliflower ear is to prevent the trauma in the first place.

If you participate in high-risk sports, such as wrestling, wear a helmet to protect yourself. Protection is especially important for children. Look for protective head gear that includes ear guards, and make sure your child always wears this protective gear when participating in contact sports.

Make sure your child and their coach understand the early signs of cauliflower ear and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention. You should also talk to your doctor about the use of blood thinners while participating in contact sports. Blood thinners can increase your risk for cauliflower ear, so avoiding the use of them before participating in a contact sport may help prevent this condition. Early treatment can help prevent cauliflower ear.

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