Ear Pierce Infection Symptoms

One of the biggest risks of getting your ears pierced is developing an infection. Since some piercings are not actually infected but healing, the first step in determining what to do is knowing the signs of an actual infection.

Redness

Redness is usually, but not always, accompanied by inflammation and pain in an infected pierced ear. Watching for whether redness goes away is a good indicator of whether the infection is healing or not.

Inflammation

Swelling, or inflammation, is one of the most common signs of infection from ear piercing. Apply cold packs to the piercing area, and if the swelling does not go away after seven days, you should see a doctor.

Fever

If you develop a fever in conjunction with pain and inflammation after getting your ears pierced, it is highly likely that you have an infection. You should see a doctor if at all possible, especially if the fever doesn't go away within 48 hours. Children who get a fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit should see a doctor immediately.

Pain

Although pain is common after getting your ears pierced, if it persists for more than five days, you may have an infection. Instead of the initial pain subsiding, it will worsen, and you may also experience burning or stinging.

Pustules

A sure sign of infection caused by ear piercing is the formation of pustules on or near the piercing. Do not try to open these sores, but do take out the piercing immediately and apply a topical antibiotic.

Drainage

Draining fluid is different from the formation of a pustule, and it is less obvious. If you notice that the area around your pierced ear seems to leak a clear or yellowish fluid, you may have an infection, especially if you're also experiencing redness, pain or inflammation.

References

• Ear Piercing Infection Symptoms
• Perichondritis