Ear Cartilage piercing infection--what should I do?

I've had my ear cartilage piercing for about 9 months. It's gotten infected a few times before, but this is by far the worst! I changed my earring yesterday, then decided I didn't want it changed and switched back to a stud (not sure if it's sterling silver or stainless steel). It's incredibly painful to the point where it's throbbing and I had to take tylenol. It is very swollen around the area. I removed the earring to look at it and there was a large, darkened bump. I squeezed it until it popped (yeah, stupid, I know--I only found that out just now). It bled a lot and then this little hard white piece of something came out--not sure if it was pus or not. I put hydrogen peroxide on it, then I cleaned it with the ear care solution Claire's gave me when I got the piercing. I'm worried about permanent damage or morphing to my ear...Is there a way to make the bumps completely go away? How should I go about healing this infection? Should I see my doctor? I'd appreciate any help!!!