I think i have a keloid growing from my piercing on my ear cartilage. its red & it hurts. is it a keloid? i don't recall any pain from keloids. help?

Piercing : You are right. Keloids are not usually painful and red. Sounds more like an infection of the cartilage , which is generally not something you should pierce through. Get to your doctor asap for antibiotics, possible drainage of any fluid collection.

Maybe: Keloids or hypertrophic scars associate with ear piercing are not uncommon. Both have inflammation and irritation and can produce pain, itching/stinging, etc.. Most common causes are non-sterile piercings, poor after care to keep areas clean and moist, and using dis-similar metal posts/earrings (which cause an small galvanic electric current which can cause irritation and scarring.

Low possibility : More likely to be an infection even though keloids can be painful if you are lying on them. The first thing to do is to remove the piercing, then cleanse the area, use a topical antibiotic and make an appointment to see your primary care. If it is a keloid then your doctor will advise you to avoid replacing the piercing, start you with pressure or steroid injection or refer you to a plastic surgeon.