What do you when an ear piercing is infected?

If you think your ear piercing is infected, it's important to seek medical attention from a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or a nurse. Here's what you can do in the meantime to help manage the infection:

1. Clean the Piercing: Gently clean the piercing site with a saline solution (1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized salt dissolved in 1 cup of warm water) or a mild antibacterial soap. Clean the area twice a day, and ensure that you gently remove any crust or discharge from the piercing.

2. Don't Remove the Jewelry: It's essential not to remove the jewelry yourself, as this can cause further trauma and delay the healing process. Removing the jewelry can also trap infection inside the piercing.

3. Apply a Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to the infected ear piercing can help reduce pain and swelling. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and hold it against the piercing for a few minutes. Repeat this several times throughout the day.

4. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: If you're experiencing pain, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help manage the symptoms.

5. Avoid Touching the Piercing: Try to resist the urge to touch or play with the piercing, as this can introduce more bacteria into the area and worsen the infection.

6. Keep the Area Dry: Avoid getting the piercing site wet, as this can create a moist environment that encourages bacterial growth. After bathing or showering, gently pat the area dry with a clean cloth.

7. Wear Loose Clothing: If the piercing is on the earlobe, try to wear loose clothing to prevent the jewelry from being caught or pulled on.

8. Follow Doctor's Instructions: If the infection is severe or doesn't improve with home care, it's crucial to follow the instructions provided by the doctor. They may prescribe antibiotic medications or recommend additional treatments.

Remember, the most important step is to seek professional medical advice and treatment for an infected ear piercing. Please don't hesitate to contact a healthcare provider for further guidance and care.