I had my cartilage pierced, with a needle, no gun, a year ago. Its fine if I don't touch it. Not swollen, no discharge, but it STILL hurts if I touch it or lay on it and I can not change the stud (have tried to switch to a hoop) without the post going between the skin and cartilage. It looks perfect, like there is nothing wrong, but obviously there is something. Should I just take it out and let it close up and try again in a year? I hate to, I really love it where it is, but this pain if you bump it with a comb or anything is really annoying...

It might depend on your ear and cartlidge. If it is really bothering you see a doctor and see what they say.