When to get immediate medical attention
Although minor swelling and redness are typical, more severe symptoms could be a sign of infection. See your piercer or doctor right away if you‘re experiencing: uncomfortable pain or swelling. unusually thick or smelly discharge.
Consequently, how do you reduce swelling from a piercing?
Apply a warm compress or do a sea salt soak
A warm compress can help the infection drain and relieve pain and swelling. Soaking the infection in a warm salt solution can also help the infection heal.
Moreover, should I take my piercing out if it’s swollen?
If a new piercing is infected, it is best not to remove the earring. Removing the piercing can allow the wound to close, trapping the infection within the skin. For this reason, it is advisable not to remove an earring from an infected ear unless advised by a doctor or professional piercer.
Does ibuprofen reduce piercing swelling?
Anti-inflammatories: OTC Ibuprofen or Naproxen Sodium (taken according to package directions) can help with swelling and pain associated with oral piercings.
How can I make my cartilage piercing heal faster?
How to Heal a Helix
- GO TO A PROFESSIONAL. …
- SAY NO TO THE GUN. …
- CHOOSE YOUR JEWELLERY WISELY, AND DON’T CHANGE IT. …
- GET ONE DONE AT A TIME. …
- KEEP IT CLEAN. …
- TREAT YOUR PIERCING TO REGULAR SALT BATHS. …
- CONSIDER EMU OIL. …
- AVOID.
How do you know if your body is rejecting a piercing?
Symptoms of piercing rejection
- more of the jewelry becoming visible on the outside of the piercing.
- the piercing remaining sore, red, irritated, or dry after the first few days.
- the jewelry becoming visible under the skin.
- the piercing hole appearing to be getting larger.
- the jewelry looking like it is hanging differently.
Does ice reduce swelling?
Ice feels good on a new injury because it temporarily decreases the amount of blood flow to the injured area. This can significantly reduce inflammation, pain and swelling.
What does an infected piercing look like?
Your piercing might be infected if: the area around it is swollen, painful, hot, very red or dark (depending on your skin colour) there’s blood or pus coming out of it – pus can be white, green or yellow. you feel hot or shivery or generally unwell.
Is my piercing infected or just healing?
According to Thompson, the telltale signs of an infection are simple: “The area around the piercing is warm to the touch, you notice extreme redness or red streaks protruding from it, and it has discolored pus, normally with a green or brown tint,” Thompson says.
How do I reduce swelling?
Mild swelling
- Rest and protect a sore area. …
- Elevate the injured or sore area on pillows while applying ice and any time you are sitting or lying down. …
- Avoid sitting or standing without moving for prolonged periods of time. …
- A low-sodium diet may help reduce swelling.
Why is my cartilage piercing sore?
Right after getting your cartilage pierced, you might notice a small bump, general redness, slight swelling, mild pain or some bleeding. This is normal — you just punctured a hole through your ear! Cartilage is more likely to undergo complications from a piercing than soft tissue, such as the earlobe.
Is it bad if your cartilage piercing swells?
It is vital to keep piercings clean and to see a doctor for symptoms of an infection. Talk to a licensed piercer about the right piercing aftercare, then diligently follow their instructions. If the piercing is painful, red, or swollen and home treatment does not help, seek medical advice.
Will an infected piercing heal itself?
Minor pierced ear infections can be treated at home. With proper care, most will clear up in 1 to 2 weeks.
Should I take my piercing out if its rejecting?
The takeaway
Migration and rejection are some complications that can result from a new piercing. If you suspect something is wrong, take out your jewelry and talk with your piercer. A new piece of jewelry is often enough to stop migration and prevent rejection.
