Struggling With Infected Ear Piercing? Expert Shares How To Treat It

Having your ears pierced is a fun way to showcase individuality, but sometimes, that tiny twinkle can get infected and be a painful surprise. An infected ear piercing can hurt, be swollen, and even discharge pus, making the fashion accessory a health issue. While minor infections are usually treatable at home, it's important to understand how to treat and avoid them.

So we reached out to our expert, Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director and Chief Health Officer (Indian Subcontinent), International SOS, and he explained to us, how to treat an infected ear piercing. Read ahead to find out.

How to Know an Infected Ear Piercing

Dr Vora noted that infection may take days or even weeks to show up after the piercing. Redness, swelling, and tenderness around the piercing area are some of the most common indications. Other signs may include:

• Yellow or green discharge or crusting
• A throbbing pain or heat in the area
• A small bump (pustule) is developing near the hole

Also Read: Is It Possible to Tighten Breasts Naturally? Know It From an Expert

“If the symptoms are minimal, home care may suffice. But if you experience spreading redness, fever, or swelling behind the ear, it's advisable to see a doctor as soon as possible,” he suggested.

Why Ear Infections Occur After Piercing

Despite the use of sterile methods, ear piercings may get infected because of:

• Inadequate aftercare: Touching the piercing with dirty hands or taking off jewellery too soon allows bacteria to enter.
• Allergic reactions: Nickel earrings tend to cause irritation that can become an infection.
• Dirty tools or surfaces: Using non-sterile equipment or sleeping on unclean pillowcases can increase risk.
• Quick jewellery changes: Removing or switching earrings before the piercing heals completely can cause trauma.

Steps to Treat an Infected Ear Piercing at Home

If your infection is mild, consistent care can help your ear heal without medical intervention. Here’s what Dr Vora recommended: 

1. Clean the area twice daily

Clean around the piercing gently with a cotton pad using a saline solution (1 teaspoon of salt dissolved in 1 cup of warm water). Never use alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these will slow healing by dehydrating the skin.

2. Leave the earring in

Taking the earring out will close the hole, allowing bacteria to collect inside and exacerbate the infection. Clean around it carefully instead, but leave it in.

3. Apply antibiotic ointment

A light layer of an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment that will help diminish bacteria and inflammation.

4. Resist touching or turning the jewellery

Frequent futzing can irritate the piercing and add new germs. Keep your fingers away except for cleansing.

5. Use warm compresses

Placing a warm, clean compress on for five to 10 minutes several times per day will alleviate pain and encourage drainage of pus (if there is pus).

Also read: 15 Million Teens Vape Reveals WHO Report, Experts Highlight Health Risks For Children And Pregnant Women

When to Consult a Doctor

Dr Vora noted to seek professional help if:

• The infection gets worse even with home care in two to three days
• There is severe pain or swelling that extends beyond the ear
• Fever develops
• Thick pus or an abscess is seen forming

A physician can instruct you to take oral antibiotics or temporarily take off the earring for proper cleaning and healing.

Future Piercing Prevention Tips

Here are a few things you should take in consideration if you think of getting another piercing :

• Only use a licensed and clean piercing parlour.
• Choose hypoallergenic jewellery, if possible, in gold, titanium, or surgical stainless steel.
• Adhere to aftercare instructions carefully for a minimum of six to eight weeks.
• Keep changing pillowcases and do not sleep on the freshly pierced side.
• Skip swimming in pools or lakes until the piercing is fully healed.

Bottomline

An infected ear piercing is painful, but with good care and good hygiene, most instances heal swiftly without issue. The most important thing is not to panic, keep it clean, and not touch it unnecessarily. And if the infection appears serious, don't delay seeking medical assistance.