If you’ve recently gotten a piercing or have been wearing piercings for a while, you may be concerned about the possibility of infections even after the piercings have healed. In this article, we will explore the signs and symptoms of an infection, as well as discuss which types of piercings are more prone to infections.
Symptoms of an infection
Symptoms of an infection after piercings heal can include itching, burning, and swelling. It can also be associated with a fever in severe cases. These symptoms can be prevented by following a routine of after-piercing care.
It is important to keep the area clean to prevent infection. This may involve sanitizing the area with an antiseptic mouthwash before eating or eating with your piercing. You can also rinse the area with saltwater. You can combine a quarter teaspoon salt with eight ounces water to do this. Dry with a cotton ball or paper towel.
To prevent infection, you should also remove your earrings each night. Failure to do so can lead to deformities and infection. You can also use a warm water compress to soothe the area. This is best done for 20-30 minutes and should be repeated as needed.
In addition to these tips, you should also see your dermatologist. If your symptoms are not cleared up within two weeks of the piercing, you may need to have the area checked out. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or you may need to take antibiotics at home.
For minor infections, you can clean the area with sterile saline or topical antibiotic ointment. You might consider a warm-water compress for moderate infections.
Common piercings most susceptible to infection
There is a chance of infection in the first few weeks following a piercing. Infections are often caused by bacteria entering the wound. But infections can also happen later. The risk of infection can be reduced if the piercing is cleaned and sterilized regularly.
A sign of infection is when a piercing feels hot, red or swollen. These symptoms can get worse. If the infection is severe consult a doctor.
Infections can be a result of bacteria or a broken skin barrier. The body will attempt to heal the wound. Fluid will collect in the skin after the infection has healed. This can lead to an infection called an abscess. A doctor may prescribe antibiotic medications to treat an infection.
The most common piercings that are more likely to develop infections are those that are located on the ear lobe or cartilage. This is because these areas have less blood flow. This makes it harder for the body to fight off infection.
An infection that is severe is more likely to develop if the piercing is on the cartilage or ear lobe. The infection can lead to abscesses or scarring. It can also cause deformities. If an infection occurs, the piercing should not be removed until it is fully healed.
Prevention of infections
It is important to prevent infections from developing during healing piercings. This is because the infection can spread to other parts of the body. Infections can also cause sepsis, a medical emergency.
Before getting a piercing, check with your doctor to learn what steps you should take to prevent infections. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat infection. This is especially important if you have infections in your nasal and oral cavities.
Some infections can be treated at home. Others, however, may require a trip to the doctor. If you notice symptoms, such as swelling, fever, and pus, you should see a doctor.
Also, ensure that your piercing instruments are clean and sterile. If you’re a tattoo artist, you should wash your hands before touching a new client. You should also use sterile disposable gloves.
Some infections may need antibiotics, and may need to be treated in a hospital. If you don’t see improvement in five days, it is time to visit your doctor. Your doctor may also drain an abscess.
Antimicrobial soap is also recommended to clean the piercing. Your jewelry should also be cleaned. Using harsh solutions can damage new healing tissue.
If your ear lobes ooze a yellowish liquid, you may have an infection. You can use a warm compress to reduce the swelling. This infection can be treated with an antibiotic ointment two times per day.
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Piecing together a life one day at a time, that’s me. I’m Rusty, and I love being editor-in-chief of creative piercing. It’s my passion to help others see their vision and bring it to life. When I’m not working or taking care of my family, you can find me reading a good book or eating pie (of course!).
