The right ear has been swollen since getting an ear piercing.
Sep 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, persistent swelling in the right ear after ear piercing may be related to physiological phenomena, local allergies, bacterial infection, ear piercing inflammation, or abscess formation at the piercing site. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions for symptomatic treatment. Additionally, it could also be associated with otitis media. If patients experience any discomfort, they should seek timely medical attention at a hospital to avoid delaying diagnosis and treatment.
Under normal circumstances, persistent swelling in the right ear after ear piercing may be related to physiological responses, local allergic reactions, bacterial infection, infected piercing, or abscess formation at the piercing site. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for symptomatic treatment. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Physiological Response
Ear piercing itself is an invasive procedure that damages ear tissue and commonly results in symptoms such as redness and swelling, along with mild pain. These symptoms typically do not require special treatment and usually resolve on their own. The patient should keep the wound clean and dry.
2. Local Allergic Reaction
If the earring material used is of poor quality or contains allergens, it may trigger contact dermatitis, leading to symptoms such as swelling and itching around the piercing site. In such cases, patients can take antihistamines like loratadine tablets or cetirizine hydrochloride capsules under medical supervision.
3. Bacterial Infection
Failure to properly care for a fresh piercing—such as allowing the area to get wet or exposing it to a contaminated environment—may result in bacterial infection. This can cause redness, swelling, pain, and discharge. The area can be disinfected locally with iodophor. In more severe cases, topical erythromycin ointment or oral amoxicillin capsules may be used under a doctor’s direction.
4. Piercing Inflammation
Poor hygiene after ear piercing may lead to bacterial or viral infection at the site, triggering an inflammatory response and resulting in localized swelling and pain. In such cases, medications such as erythromycin ointment or mupirocin ointment may be applied as directed by a physician.
5. Piercing Abscess
Frequently picking or scratching the piercing site may lead to abscess formation around the ear hole, causing swelling and pus discharge. Small abscesses may be cleaned with hydrogen peroxide. Larger abscesses require timely medical intervention, including surgical incision and drainage as directed by a healthcare provider.
In addition, swelling may also be associated with otitis media. If patients experience discomfort or worsening symptoms, they should seek prompt medical attention at a hospital to avoid delayed diagnosis and treatment.
