How to treat an infected ear piercing
Nov 03, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
For an infected ear piercing, disinfect with alcohol and apply a topical anti-inflammatory ointment. Take oral anti-inflammatory medication as directed by a healthcare provider. Avoid touching or squeezing the ear, and keep the piercing site dry and well-ventilated. Rotate the earring daily to prevent it from adhering to the skin, but avoid frequent rotation or touching the piercing with unclean hands. After one week, the patient may switch to plastic earrings.
Ear piercing inflammation occurs when the skin around the piercing is broken and bleeds, leading to bacterial infection. Clinical symptoms include redness, swelling, inflammation, pain, and discharge from the pierced area. Early treatment should be initiated promptly, with the following specific measures:
1. Avoid touching or pressing on the ears while sleeping. Keep the piercing site dry and prevent it from getting wet during face washing or showering. Ensure the piercing remains dry and well-ventilated.
2. Gently rotate the earring daily to prevent it from adhering to the surrounding skin.
3. Do not touch the piercing with unclean hands or frequently twist the earring.
4. After disinfecting the area with alcohol, apply a topical anti-inflammatory ointment locally, and take oral anti-inflammatory medication as directed by a physician.
5. After one week, replace the metal earring with a plastic earring.
