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Infected ear piercing

Symptoms, treatment and prevention
Last update on Jan 08th, 2025

Understanding and addressing ear piercing infections

Even when ear piercings are done at licensed centres, there is still a risk of developing an infection. It’s common to experience some discomfort, redness, or inflammation during the initial healing period. However, if these symptoms worsen or persist, they could indicate an infected ear piercing. Acting quickly and knowing how to treat an infected ear piercing is essential to avoid further issues. In this article, we’ll discuss the signs of an infection and practical steps to support proper healing.

Can an old ear piercing get infected?

Yes, even an old ear piercing can develop an infection, often due to factors like irritation, buildup of dirt or jewellery materials causing a reaction. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, or discharge. For mild cases, an old ear piercing infection home remedy such as cleaning the area with saline solution may help. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional to prevent complications.

Should i remove infected ear piercing?

It’s generally not recommended to remove an infected ear piercing, as this can cause the wound to close and trap the infection inside. Instead, keep the area clean and apply appropriate treatments, such as saline solution, to help the healing process. If the infection worsens or doesn’t improve, it’s best to seek medical advice.

Symptoms of infection from earrings or piercings

Recognising the infection from earrings symptoms is crucial for prompt treatment. The typical signs of an earlobe piercing infection include:

  • Redness and swelling around the piercing site;
  • Pulsing pain in the ear or a sensation of heat
  • Increased sensitivity or pain when touched
  • A foul-smelling discharge (pus)
  • Fever

If you notice any of these earring infection symptoms or piercing ear infection symptoms, it’s important to address them quickly to prevent further complications and promote healing.

How to make a swollen ear piercing go down?

If your ear piercing is swollen, there are several steps you can take to help reduce the swelling:

  1. Clean the piercing;
  2. Apply a cold compress (10-15 minutes a few times a day);
  3. Avoid touching or twisting the earring;
  4. Keep the piercing dry.

What to do if there’s pus around an ear piercing?

In some cases, bacterial infections may lead to the accumulation of pus around the wound. If neglected, the abscess may require surgical drainage and resul in possible scarring.

Can ear piercing cause lump behind ear?

On occasion, lumps (also known as keloids) may form on the skin in response to the ear piercing injure. In come cases, they may disappear on their own after a few months, while in others, they may need to be surgically removed. Either way, make sure to see your doctor if more severe symptoms surface.

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Infected ear piercing causes

There are various reasons why a piercing might become infected:

  • Inadequate aftercare: failing to clean the piercing properly or using unsuitable cleaning products can allow harmful bacteria to enter the wound.
  • Dirty hands: touching or twisting the jewelry with unwashed hands can transfer bacteria to the piercing.
  • Allergic reactions: some individuals may have sensitivities to certain materials used in jewelry, which can trigger irritation and lead to infection.
  • Physical trauma: accidental pulling or bumping of the piercing can cause small injuries, increasing the risk of infection.

Potential consequences of an infected ear piercing

Ear infections resulting from a piercing can be treated in a short time, without any particular consequences, using home remedies or with prescribed antibiotics. If left untreated, they can cause:

Abscess in ear piercing

An untreated infection can lead to the formation of an abscess—a painful collection of pus around the piercing site. This may require drainage and further medical treatment to fully heal.

Allergic reaction to ear piercing​

An infection in an ear piercing can sometimes cause an allergic reaction to certain metals in the jewelry, such as nickel. This can lead to increased irritation, swelling, and discharge. If left untreated, the allergic reaction may exacerbate the infection, making it harder to heal.

Cauliflower Ear

If an infection or injury to the ear isn’t treated properly, it can result in a condition called " cauliflower ear," where the ear becomes deformed due to the accumulation of fluid and scar tissue. This may require surgical intervention to correct.

How to treat earring infection

Treating an earring infection effectively requires proper care and attention. Here are the key steps:

  1. Clean the area: use a saline solution to clean the piercing twice a day. Avoid harsh chemicals like alcohol.
  2. Avoid touching: only touch the piercing with clean hands to prevent introducing bacteria.
  3. Apply a warm compress: use a warm, clean cloth to reduce swelling and discomfort.
  4. Use an antibacterial ointment: If recommended by a doctor, apply a mild ointment to the infected area.
  5. Keep the piercing dry: ensure the area is dry after cleaning to avoid further infection.
  6. See a doctor: If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional for treatment.

By following these steps, most earring infections can be treated effectively at home. However, it’s important to seek medical advice if the infection worsens or doesn’t improve.

Best home remedy for ear piercing infection

A simple and effective home remedy for a mild ear piercing infection is to clean the area twice a day with a saline solution (warm water and salt). Gently use a cotton swab to apply the solution around the piercing. Keeping the area clean and avoiding irritation can help promote healing.

When to go to doctor for ear piercing infection?

You should see a doctor if your ear piercing infection shows no improvement after home care, worsens, or presents severe symptoms like intense pain, significant swelling, fever, or pus. Delaying medical attention can lead to complications, so it’s best to seek professional help promptly if over-the-counter treatments are ineffective.

What to avoid during treatment?

Avoid exposure to the sun, sand, pool water and cosmetics while the wound is healing. Also, do not remove the piercing for more than the time necessary to clean it.

Special care for delicate piercings: Tragus, Helix, Rook, and Daith

When it comes to more delicate piercings, such as the tragus, helix, rook, or daith, it's essential to follow specific aftercare instructions. These piercings are more prone to complications like a swollen tragus or infected helix piercing, so it’s important to consult your piercer about the correct treatment and healing time for each type. The frequency of cleaning and the duration of recovery can vary significantly depending on the piercing. For example, if your tragus hurts or a rook piercing infection develops, you may need tailored care. Always adhere to your piercer’s advice to prevent these kind of issues.

How to prevent an ear piercing infection?

To prevent an ear piercing infection, proper aftercare is essential. Clean the piercing regularly with a saline solution, avoid touching it with dirty hands, and refrain from rotating the jewelry. Make sure to use high-quality, hypoallergenic jewelry to reduce the risk of irritation or allergic reactions. Always follow the aftercare instructions provided by your piercer.

How to prevent keloids on ear piercings​?

To prevent keloids, avoid trauma to the piercing site and use hypoallergenic jewelry. If you have a history of keloids, consult your piercer or a dermatologist before getting a piercing.

Ear piercing for migraine headaches

Some believe that piercings like the daith may reduce migraine symptoms by targeting pressure points. However, there is no medical evidence or clinical studies supporting the effectiveness of ear piercings for migraine relief, and results vary from person to person.

Can an infected ear piercing cause headaches?

Yes, an infection can lead to headaches, especially if it spreads or causes swelling. Seek medical attention if headaches occur alongside infection.

Can an infected ear piercing cause swollen lymph nodes?

Yes, an infected ear piercing can cause swollen lymph nodes. The lymph nodes act as part of your immune system and swell when they are fighting an infection. If you notice swollen lymph nodes along with redness, pain, or discharge from the piercing, it is important to seek prompt medical care.

Can ear piercing cause fever?

An infection from a piercing can lead to fever. Seek medical help if you develop fever with other infection symptoms.

Can ear piercing cause sore throat?

While it's uncommon, an infected ear piercing can cause a sore throat if the infection spreads. If this happens, seek medical advice.

Can ear piercing cause tinnitus?

Tinnitus is not common with piercings, but irritation or infection may cause temporary symptoms. See a doctor if symptoms persist.

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