Ear Infection from Ear Piercing: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute financial, educational, health, nutritional, medical, legal, etc advice provided by a professional.

Causes of Ear Infection from Ear Piercing

Getting your ears pierced can be a thrilling experience, but it's important to follow the proper protocol to avoid infection. When protocol isn't followed, or if you don't follow post-piercing cleaning instructions closely enough, infection can occur. The main cause of an ear infection from piercing is bacteria. When the skin is pierced, it creates an opening for bacteria to enter the body. If the piercing is not kept clean and dry, the bacteria can multiply and cause an infection.

Symptoms of an Infected Ear Piercing

It's essential to be able to identify the signs of an infected ear piercing. Some common symptoms include:

Pain and tenderness at the piercing site
Redness and swelling around the piercing
Heat radiating from the piercing
Discharge or pus coming from the piercing
Itching and irritation

Treating an Ear Infection at Home

If you suspect that your ear piercing is infected, there are some steps you can take to treat it at home:

Clean the piercing with a saline solution or mild saltwater solution twice a day
Avoid touching or playing with the piercing
Avoid using harsh chemicals or alcohol-based products on the piercing
Apply a warm compress to the area to help reduce swelling and promote healing
Avoid swimming or submerging the piercing in water until it has fully healed

When to See a Doctor

While most ear piercing infections can be treated at home, there are situations where you should see a doctor:

If the infection does not improve after a week of at-home treatment
If the infection becomes worse or spreads
If you develop a fever or experience flu-like symptoms

Preventing Ear Infections from Ear Piercing

Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding ear infections from ear piercing. Here are some tips to help prevent infection:

Choose a reputable and professional piercing studio
Make sure the piercing equipment is properly sterilized
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer
Avoid touching the piercing with dirty hands
Avoid swimming in pools, hot tubs, or natural bodies of water until the piercing is fully healed

Conclusion

While ear infections from ear piercing can be uncomfortable and inconvenient, they are usually treatable with proper care and attention. By following the recommended aftercare instructions and maintaining good hygiene, you can reduce the risk of infection and enjoy your new ear piercing without any complications.