cartilage piercing infections

Piercing is our thing. They represent a style and form of expression that is unmatched by any other type of accessory. But cartilage piercing, like any other kind, is not only fun and a game.

With any piercing done by professionals, it is important to watch for signs of infection.

It is bad news. The good news is that by being proactive and keeping your cartilage piercing clean, you can prevent any chance of infection. 

This guide will help you and other Newmarket, Ontario residents determine if your cartilage piercing has become infected and how to care for it.

What are the signs of an infected cartilage piercing?

Remember, when you pierce an ear, you are piercing the skin and essentially opening a wound. It doesn't hurt much, but the open wound is still there, albeit temporarily. 

This wound, like any other, is susceptible to bacteria, and if not properly cleaned (and sometimes even properly maintained), it can become infected.

Here are a few signs that you may be dealing with an infection:

• Red bump - an irritated bump of ear cartilage will appear near the puncture site.

• tender skin on the ear - this skin can be inflamed as a result of a bacterial infection. The skin may also be warm, as this is a sign that your body is fighting an infection.

• Redness of the skin immediately after the piercing is normal, but watch out if the redness returns after a few days or if you notice other signs of infection.

• Color highlights. A small amount of clear fluid or a crust around the piercing is normal, but watch out if the discharge turns yellow, green, or has a foul odor. This means it's pus, which is a sign of an infection.

How Newmarket Residents Can Treat an Infected Piercing

The key to treating an infected piercing is that you must leave the earring inside. This will keep the hole open, allowing bacteria to flush out during treatment. 

Here are a few steps to treat the infection:

1. Continue with the daily cleaning process of your new piercing. It is important to follow this regimen to keep the ear clean.

1. Sterile saline solution is recommended to facilitate rinsing, to clean the piercing, use a mild, alcohol-free, fragrance-free soap in the shower with plenty of running warm water to rinse.

If irritation persists within a week or gets worse, seek advice from a trusted piercer. If necessary, the piercer will recommend a visit to the doctor.

How to prevent future irritations

After the symptoms are gone, continue with strict and consistent care and visit a reputable piercer at the first sign of trouble.

Other steps you can take include:

• Do not touch the piercing with dirty hands. Cleanliness is very important when it comes to piercings!

• Continue to follow the recommended two-step care routine throughout the healing process of your piercing. 

• When you sleep, position yourself so that the piercing is not resting on your ear. This will prevent him from putting pressure on your pillow.

By continuing to take proper precautions and care for your piercing, you can successfully prevent infection. 

When should you seek help?

Cartilage infections start on the surface, but if left untreated, they can penetrate deep into the tissues. Don't put off seeing your doctor if you think the infection is getting worse. It is better to play it safe, as any infection can become dangerous.

Enjoy your new piercing

By taking care of your cartilage piercing and quickly fixing problems with your piercing at the first sign of irritation, you can help your body heal properly and prevent further problems.

Piercing is a great way to express your personality and add a unique touch to your look. If you're ready to take the next step and speak with a local expert to help you select the perfect piercing, contact the Pierced.co team in Newmarket, Ontario.