Gooma our rat

Question
Our pet rat, Gooma has a very swollen ear. I'm thinking my 5 year old could have bumped it while playing with him. It happened overnight....going from normal to very swollen,redish purple, and closing up his ear hole. Gooma doesn't seem to be in pain and is eating and playing well. It's been the same for 3 days now. Is there anything we can do (or give him) at home or do we have to take him to a vet?....we don't have much money, but we would if it can't be cared for at home.

Thanks for any help and a quick response would be great.

Lori

Answer
 I'm not sure that problem could result from a simple bumping, especially if it is swollen shut and purplish.  There may be something more serious wrong that is causing it.  For now I would try giving him Ibuprofen (Infant's motrin works well) at a dose of 0.03mg / gram of his weight.  This helps to bring down swelling and reduce pain.  If after two to three days on the Ibuprofen it doesn't show any signs of improvement or has gotten worse or she shows any other symptoms I would take him to the vet for an exam.  I hope he gets better soon, good luck!