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Signs of Ear Infection from New Earrings: What to Watch For

Signs of Ear Infection from New Earrings What to Watch For

A piercing is an open wound that needs time and proper care. Compared to earlobe piercings, cartilage piercings usually take longer to heal and are more susceptible to infection. Infections can still occur even if a person diligently follows the aftercare instructions.

An ear piercing can become infected even years after the initial piercing. Infections are mostly minor, and individuals can manage them easily at home. Touching the piercing often with dirty hands or neglecting to clean the area can cause diseases. Also, earrings that are too tight may stop the hurt from breathing and healing.

Causes of Infections

Even with proper care, approximately 20% of earlobe piercings become infected, while about 30% of cartilage piercings become infected. An infected ear piercing is commonly caused by bacteria entering the wound, which can occur in different ways:

  1. Non-sterile equipment: Pierced ears can get infected if the equipment or environment isn’t sterile.
  2. Handling with unclean hands: If you clean your ears without washing your hands first, you risk exposing your piercings to bacteria.
  3. Need to clean the piercing more: Ear piercing infections are common if you don’t wash them often enough.
  4. Do not allow the piercing to heal: Removing the earrings before the piercing has healed increases the likelihood of infection.

Symptoms

It is normal to notice some itching and tenderness around new ear piercings. During the first few weeks, your piercing might appear slightly red or produce a crusty discharge as it heals.

You may also notice a small bump forming around the piercing for high ear piercings or cartilage piercings. This is called a granuloma and is also quite normal. These bumps form when fluid becomes trapped inside, but they can be treated at home by applying a warm compress once a day.

Symptoms of an infected ear piercing mostly include:

– Redness or bump at the piercing site or redness that resumes to expand beyond the piercing

– Crusty discharge

– Feeling warmth in the area around the piercing

– Thick pus that may be yellow or green

– Pain or itching

– Fever or feeling unwell

– The earring getting stuck in your ear.

Symptoms

Treating The Infection At Home

If you have a minor infection from a piercing, you can take care of it at home. However, if you have a cartilage piercing that seems infected, seeking medical treatment is best, as these infections are harder to treat and may require oral antibiotics. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Follow these steps to take care of a minor piercing infection:

  1. Clean your hands before touching or cleaning your piercing.
  2. Clean around the piercing with a saltwater rinse three times a day using sterile saline or a mixture of 1/4 tsp. of salt with 8 oz. of distilled water.
  3. Avoid using alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or antibiotic ointments, as they irritate the skin and slow healing.
  4. Do not remove the piercing, as this can cause the hole to close up and trap the infection.
  5. Cleanse both sides of your earlobe and pat the area dry with paper towels.
  6. After clearing the infection, clean the piercing twice daily until it is fully healed. Remember that an earlobe piercing can take six to eight weeks to heal, so routine care is important.

When To See A Doctor?

A minor infection can usually be treated at home. However, seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

– The earring is stuck and cannot be moved.

– The earring clasp becomes embedded in your skin.

– The infection does not improve with home treatment within two days.

– You develop a fever.

– The infection, redness, or inflammation spreads beyond the piercing site.

Prevention

To prevent a pierced ear infection, follow these tips:

Here are the revised instructions for taking care of your new ear piercings:

– Keep your earrings in day and night until the piercings fully heal, which could take up to six weeks.

– Wash your hands before touching your lug or cartilage.

– Clean your piercing twice daily with a mild soap or cleanser, and rinse it carefully afterward.

– Apply alcohol and antibiotic ointment to the area twice daily.

– Rotate your earrings daily after applying antibiotic gel or petroleum jelly to lubricate the piercings.

Prevention

FAQ’s

What ointment is good for ear piercings?

For ear piercings, a saline solution or a diluted antiseptic ointment such as Neosporin can help keep the area clean and promote healing. Always consult a physician for personalized advice and ensure it’s safe for your situation.

How do you prevent ear infections from earrings?

It’s best to choose hypoallergenic materials such as surgical stainless steel or titanium to prevent ear infections from earrings. Make sure to clean the earrings regularly using a saline solution or rubbing alcohol. Also, avoid touching the earrings with dirty hands and keep the area dry and clean.

How can an ear piercing infection be curbed at home?

To treat an ear piercing infection at home, smoothly clean the area with a saline solution or diluted antiseptic and apply a warm compress to reduce swelling. Avoid removing the earrings unless a healthcare professional advises, as this can trap bacteria.

 

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